Subsequent Event (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jul. 25, 2013 Subsequent event GWL&A Financial
Subsequent event
Dividend declared to be paid to the sole shareholder, GWL&A Financial	$ 46,435	$ 103,200	$ 44,500