XML 46 R145.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT v2.4.0.8

Parent Company (Details Textuals) (Non Cash [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Parent Company Details (Textuals) [Abstract]
Impacts of debt exchange on long-term debt	$ 0	$ 439	$ 0
Parent Company [Member]
Parent Company Details (Textuals) [Abstract]
Impacts of debt exchange on long-term debt	$ 0	$ 439	$ 0

X

- Definition

Represents the impact on long-term debt due to debt exchange.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

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Namespace Prefix:	axp_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Details

Name:	axp_ParentCompanyDetailsTextualsAbstract
Namespace Prefix:	axp_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration