XML 49 R38.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v3.25.3

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION - Operations by Segment - Pretax Earnings (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended
--- | --- | --- | ---
Sep. 30, 2025 | Sep. 30, 2024 | Sep. 30, 2025 | Sep. 30, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2024
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Adjusted Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Total revenues |  | $ 4,740 | $ 2,949 | $ 12,298 | $ 13,524 |
Benefits and claims, excluding reserve remeasurement |  | 2,016 | 2,003 | 6,049 | 6,042 |
Reserve remeasurement (gains) losses |  | (580) | (408) | (658) | (515) |
Total benefits and claims, net |  | 1,436 | 1,595 | 5,391 | 5,527 |
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs |  | 218 | 214 | 655 | 638 | $ 851
Insurance commissions |  | 254 | 251 | 745 | 751 |
Insurance and other expenses |  | 781 | 747 | 2,387 | 2,179 |
Total benefits and expenses |  | 2,746 | 2,857 | 9,337 | 9,242 |
Net investment gains (losses) |  | 275 | (1,408) | (1,109) | 239 |
Earnings before income taxes |  | 1,994 | 92 | 2,961 | 4,282 |
Income taxes applicable to pretax adjusted earnings |  | 333 | 227 | 791 | 665 |
Effect of foreign currency translation on after-tax adjusted earnings |  | 1 | (16) | 16 | (97) |
Remeasurement gain (loss), deferred profit liability for limited-payment contracts |  | (55) | (75) | (55) | (80) |
Change in value of federal historic rehabilitation and solar tax credit investments |  | (6) | (57) | (22) | (119) |
Federal historic rehabilitation and solar tax credits, amount |  | 7 | 78 | 24 | 142 |
Operating Segments |  |  |  |  |  |
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Adjusted Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Total revenues |  | 4,406 | 4,287 | 13,261 | 13,088 |
Total benefits and expenses |  | 2,746 | 2,849 | 9,280 | 9,216 |
Pretax adjusted earnings |  | 1,660 | 1,438 | 3,981 | 3,872 |
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item, Excluding Corporate Nonsegment |  |  |  |  |  |
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Adjusted Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Other income (loss) |  | (1) | 0 | (54) | (1) |
Net investment gains (losses) |  | 275 | (1,408) | (1,109) | 239 |
Amortized hedge costs |  | 13 | 7 | 31 | 19 |
Amortized hedge income |  | (20) | (25) | (80) | (87) |
Net interest (income) expense from derivatives associated with certain investment strategies |  | 66 | 88 | 195 | 265 |
Impact of interest from derivatives associated with notes payable |  | 1 | (8) | (3) | (25) |
Aflac Japan | Operating Segments |  |  |  |  |  |
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Adjusted Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Total revenues | [1] | 2,335 | 2,378 | 7,079 | 7,297 |
Benefits and claims, excluding reserve remeasurement |  | 1,130 | 1,197 | 3,446 | 3,614 |
Reserve remeasurement (gains) losses |  | (474) | (369) | (513) | (421) |
Total benefits and claims, net |  | 656 | 828 | 2,933 | 3,193 |
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs |  | 81 | 82 | 245 | 242 |
Insurance commissions |  | 111 | 110 | 328 | 330 |
Insurance and other expenses |  | 271 | 285 | 845 | 785 |
Total benefits and expenses |  | 1,119 | 1,305 | 4,351 | 4,550 |
Pretax adjusted earnings | [1] | 1,216 | 1,073 | 2,728 | 2,747 |
Aflac U.S. | Operating Segments |  |  |  |  |  |
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Adjusted Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Total revenues |  | 1,728 | 1,684 | 5,177 | 5,068 |
Benefits and claims, excluding reserve remeasurement |  | 752 | 711 | 2,219 | 2,130 |
Reserve remeasurement (gains) losses |  | (71) | (17) | (110) | (71) |
Total benefits and claims, net |  | 681 | 694 | 2,109 | 2,059 |
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs |  | 137 | 132 | 410 | 396 |
Insurance commissions |  | 143 | 141 | 417 | 422 |
Insurance and other expenses |  | 392 | 367 | 1,120 | 1,102 |
Total benefits and expenses |  | 1,353 | 1,334 | 4,056 | 3,979 |
Pretax adjusted earnings |  | 375 | 350 | 1,121 | 1,089 |
Corporate and other | Operating Segments |  |  |  |  |  |
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Adjusted Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Total revenues | [2] | 343 | 225 | 1,005 | 723 |
Total benefits and expenses |  | 274 | 210 | 873 | 687 |
Pretax adjusted earnings | [2] | $ 69 | $ 15 | $ 132 | $ 36 |
[1] | Includes a gain (loss) of $(55) and $(75) for the three-month periods and $(55) and $(80) for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively, related to remeasurement of the deferred profit liability for limited-payment contracts.
[2] | The change in value of federal historic rehabilitation and solar investments in partnerships of $6 and $57 for the three-month periods and $22 and $119 for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2025, and 2024, respectively, is included as a reduction to net investment income. Tax credits on these investments of $7 and $78 for the three-month periods and $24 and $142 for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2025, and 2024, respectively, have been recorded as an income tax benefit in the consolidated statements of earnings. See Note 3 for additional information on these investments.

X
- Definition Effect of foreign currency translation on after tax adjusted earnings + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | afl_Effectofforeigncurrencytranslationonaftertaxadjustedearnings
Namespace Prefix: | afl_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of federal historic rehabilitation and solar tax credits recognized. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | afl_FederalHistoricRehabilitationAndSolarTaxCreditsAmount
Namespace Prefix: | afl_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Gain (loss) on change in fair value of derivative, interest rate component, considered an operating gain (loss) when analyzing segment operations + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | afl_GainLossOnChangeInFairValueOfDerivativeInterestRateComponentOperating
Namespace Prefix: | afl_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Income (Loss) from Federal Historic Rehabilitation and Solar Tax Credit Investments + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | afl_IncomeLossFromFederalHistoricRehabilitationAndSolarTaxCreditInvestments
Namespace Prefix: | afl_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Income taxes applicable to pretax adjusted earnings + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | afl_Incometaxesapplicabletopretaxadjustedearnings
Namespace Prefix: | afl_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Net interest (income) expense from derivatives associated with certain investment strategies + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | afl_NetInterestIncomeExpenseFromDerivativesAssociatedWithCertainInvestmentStrategies
Namespace Prefix: | afl_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Excluding Reserve Remeasurement (Gain) Loss + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | afl_PolicyholderBenefitsAndClaimsIncurredExcludingReserveRemeasurementGainLoss
Namespace Prefix: | afl_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The total amount of expense recognized during the period for future policy benefits, claims and claims adjustment costs, and for selling, general and administrative costs. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 605 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 14 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477548/944-605-55-14 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 605 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 11 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477548/944-605-55-11 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 220 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04(5)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477250/944-220-S99-1 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_BenefitsLossesAndExpenses
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of amortization expense (reversal of expense) for deferred policy acquisition costs. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 605 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 14 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477548/944-605-55-14 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 605 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 11 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477548/944-605-55-11 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (d) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479868/944-20-45-2 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (g)(1) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480016/944-40-65-2 Reference 5: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/otherTransitionRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479432/944-30-50-2 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 2B -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479432/944-30-50-2B Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 2 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479401/944-30-55-2 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482740/230-10-45-28 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 220 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04(7)(a)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477250/944-220-S99-1 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479432/944-30-50-1 Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 22 -Subparagraph (u) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147476148/220-40-50-22 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DeferredPolicyAcquisitionCostAmortizationExpense
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of cash received during the period on settlement of a hedge. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeCashReceivedOnHedge
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The premium (cost) of a hedge, expensed during the period. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeCostOfHedge
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03(9)(a)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147483621/220-10-S99-2 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03(7)(c)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147483621/220-10-S99-2 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/recommendedDisclosureRef -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482740/230-10-45-28 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestments
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of income (loss) from continuing operations, including income (loss) from equity method investments, before deduction of income tax expense (benefit), and income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 4 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147476153/220-40-55-4 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 21 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147476153/220-40-55-21 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 14 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147476153/220-40-55-14 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 942 -SubTopic 235 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S50 -Paragraph 1 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147478671/942-235-S50-1 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 942 -SubTopic 235 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-05(b)(2)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477314/942-235-S99-1 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 22 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-22 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 48 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482785/280-10-55-48 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (f) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 30 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-30 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 270 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (i) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482964/270-10-50-1 Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (ee) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32 Reference 12: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/otherTransitionRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32 Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 220 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04(11)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477250/944-220-S99-1 Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 31 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-31 Reference 15: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03(10)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147483621/220-10-S99-2 Reference 16: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 942 -SubTopic 220 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-04(15)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147478524/942-220-S99-1 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The expense incurred by an insurance company to persons or entities for generating or placing insurance or investment contracts with the company, usually determined as a percentage of policy or contract premiums. Excludes advances or draws to be applied against commissions earned. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 220 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04(7)(a)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477250/944-220-S99-1 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_InsuranceCommissions
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of remeasurement gain (loss) on liability for future policy benefit from application of revised benefit ratio as of contract issue. Includes, but is not limited to, remeasurement gain (loss) for annuitization insurance benefit, death and other insurance benefits, and traditional and limited-payment contracts. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480112/944-40-45-2 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480112/944-40-45-1 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 4 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480112/944-40-45-4 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LiabilityForFuturePolicyBenefitRemeasurementGainLoss
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of remeasurement gain (loss) on liability for future policy benefit for limited-payment contract from application of revised benefit ratio as of contract issue date. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 4 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480112/944-40-45-4 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LiabilityForFuturePolicyBenefitRemeasurementGainLossLimitedPaymentContract
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 4 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147476153/220-40-55-4 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 14 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147476153/220-40-55-14 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 22 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-22 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (f) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 30 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-30 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 270 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (i) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482964/270-10-50-1 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (ee) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32 Reference 8: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/otherTransitionRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 31 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-31 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of income (expense) related to nonoperating activities, classified as other. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 4A -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480434/815-10-50-4A Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03(9)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147483621/220-10-S99-2 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, after effects of policies assumed or ceded, of expense related to the provision for policy benefits and costs incurred. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 605 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 14 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477548/944-605-55-14 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 605 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 11 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477548/944-605-55-11 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 605 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 11 -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477548/944-605-55-11 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479868/944-20-45-2 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 220 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04(5)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477250/944-220-S99-1 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_PolicyholderBenefitsAndClaimsIncurredNet
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of revenue recognized from goods sold, services rendered, insurance premiums, or other activities that constitute an earning process. Includes, but is not limited to, investment and interest income before deduction of interest expense when recognized as a component of revenue, and sales and trading gain (loss). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 4A -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480434/815-10-50-4A Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 942 -SubTopic 235 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S50 -Paragraph 1 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147478671/942-235-S50-1 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 942 -SubTopic 235 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-05(b)(2)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477314/942-235-S99-1 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 41 -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-41 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 42 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-42 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S50 -Paragraph 1 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480738/235-10-S50-1 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08(g)(1)(i)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480678/235-10-S99-1 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 825 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (f) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482907/825-10-50-28 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 605 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 14 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477548/944-605-55-14 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 605 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 11 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477548/944-605-55-11 Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 48 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482785/280-10-55-48 Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 270 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (i) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482964/270-10-50-1 Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (ee) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32 Reference 14: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/otherTransitionRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32 Reference 15: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/otherTransitionRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32 Reference 16: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08(g)(1)(ii)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480678/235-10-S99-1 Reference 17: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 323 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481687/323-10-50-3 Reference 18: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-01(a)(4)(i)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1A Reference 19: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-01(a)(4)(ii)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1A Reference 20: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-01(a)(4)(iii)(A)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1A Reference 21: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-01(a)(4)(iv)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1A Reference 22: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-01(a)(5)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1A Reference 23: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(4)(i)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1B Reference 24: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(4)(iii)(A)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1B Reference 25: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(4)(iii)(B)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1B Reference 26: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(4)(iv)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1B Reference 27: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(5)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1B Reference 28: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 30 -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-30 Reference 29: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 22 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-22 Reference 30: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 40 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-40 Reference 31: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 22 -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-22 Reference 32: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03(1)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147483621/220-10-S99-2 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_Revenues
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemForOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentToConsolidatedLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The aggregate total costs related to selling a firm's product and services, as well as all other general and administrative expenses. Direct selling expenses (for example, credit, warranty, and advertising) are expenses that can be directly linked to the sale of specific products. Indirect selling expenses are expenses that cannot be directly linked to the sale of specific products, for example telephone expenses, Internet, and postal charges. General and administrative expenses include salaries of non-sales personnel, rent, utilities, communication, etc. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 18 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147476153/220-40-55-18 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 11 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147476153/220-40-55-11 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 4 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147476153/220-40-55-4 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 14 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147476153/220-40-55-14 Reference 5: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03(4)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147483621/220-10-S99-2 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 220 -SubTopic 40 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 6 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147476148/220-40-50-6 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Details
Name: | srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis=us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis=us-gaap_MaterialReconcilingItemsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis=afl_AflacJapanMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis=afl_AflacUSMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis=us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |