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Accounts Receivable and Loans (Details 1) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Loans segment information
Cardmember loans	$ 60,097	$ 62,621
Less: Cardmember reserve for losses	1,680	1,874	2,921	3,646
Cardmember loans, net	58,417	60,747
Other loans, net	465	419
Variable Interest Enterprise [Member]
Loans segment information
Cardmember loans	31,389	33,834
Cardmember loans, net	30,900	33,300
U S Card Services [Member]
Loans segment information
Cardmember loans	51,423	53,686
International Card Services [Member]
Loans segment information
Cardmember loans	8,632	8,901
Global Commercial Services [Member]
Loans segment information
Cardmember loans	$ 42	$ 34

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The allowance for loan and lease losses represents the reserve to cover probable credit losses related to specifically identified loans and leases, as well as probable credit losses inherent in the remainder of the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date. For banks, include currently required allocated transfer risk reserves. Include carryover of or adjustments to the allowance for loan losses in connection with business combinations determined to be appropriate.

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Reflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.

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Reflects the aggregate carrying amount of all categories of loans and leases held in portfolio, net of unearned income and the allowance for losses on loans and leases.

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Reflects the aggregate carrying amount of all loans and leases held in portfolio, not otherwise categorized (such as commercial, consumer, or foreign), net of unearned income and the allowance for losses on loans and leases, not otherwise categorized (such as commercial, consumer, or foreign).

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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.



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