Note 3 - Derivative Instruments Change in Fair Value of Derivative Instruments (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	$ 19,360	$ 10,778	$ 126,923	$ (70,357)
Net Premiums Earned On Derivatives [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	2,882	4,170	9,673	14,019
Financial Guaranty Credit Derivatives [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	8,979	9,198	97,521	(86,233)
Financial Guaranty VIE Derivative Liabilities [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	4,982	(4,026)	20,123	513
Other derivatives [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	2,517	1,436	(394)	1,344
Radian Group Consolidated [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	$ 19,360	$ 10,778	$ 126,923	$ (70,357)