v3.8.0.1
Schedule V - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]      
Balance at Beginning of Period $ 269 $ 245 $ 396
Charged to Costs and Expenses 66 68 38
Other 29 (1) (3)
Deductions 45 43 185
Effect of Foreign Exchange Rates 1 0 (1)
Balance at End of Period 320 269 245
Allowance for losses on commercial mortgage and other loans      
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]      
Balance at Beginning of Period 106 112 119
Charged to Costs and Expenses 0 0 0
Other 0 0 0
Deductions 0 7 7
Effect of Foreign Exchange Rates 0 1 0
Balance at End of Period 106 106 112
Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset      
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]      
Balance at Beginning of Period 163 133 277
Charged to Costs and Expenses 66 68 38
Other 29 (1) (3)
Deductions 45 36 178
Effect of Foreign Exchange Rates 1 (1) (1)
Balance at End of Period $ 214 $ 163 $ 133