Subsequent Event (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Oct. 31, 2013 Subsequent event GWL&A Financial
Subsequent event
Dividend declared to be paid to the sole shareholder, GWL&A Financial	$ 90,936	$ 154,800	$ 11,500