XML 28 R42.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v2.4.0.6

INVESTMENTS - Securities Lending (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified | Mar. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011
--- | --- | ---
Disclosure - Securities Lending [Abstract] |  |
Security loans outstanding, fair value | $ 188 | $ 812
Cash collateral on loaned securities | $ 193 | $ 838

X
- Details
Name: | afl_DisclosureSecuritiesLendingAbstract
Namespace Prefix: | afl_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The cash or fair value of collateral received by the entity associated with securities borrowed that must be returned if the counterparty fulfills its obligations. It appears on the balance sheet as a liability and has a corresponding asset on the balance sheet, either cash or securities, depending on which was received as the collateral. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | afl_ObligationToReturnCashOrSecuritiesReceivedAsCollateral
Namespace Prefix: | afl_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Securities that are owned and loaned to third parties as part of our securities lending program. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | afl_SecuritiesOwnedAndLoaned
Namespace Prefix: | afl_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant