Basis of Presentation (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012
Basis of Presentation
Amortization of initial payments for new contracts	$ 10.2	$ 9.8
Amortization related to equity method investments	19.7	30.5
Revenue Recognition
Interchange fees and assessments	4,510.6	4,285.1
Debit network fees	$ 697.2	$ 663.4

Represents the amount associated with the amortization of initial payments for new contracts.

No definition available.

Name:	fdc_AmortizationOfInitialPaymentsForNewContracts
Namespace Prefix:	fdc_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration