Reinsurance - Effective Exit of GMDB and GMIB Business (Details) (Berkshire Hathway Life Insurance Company Of Nebraska [Member], Variable Annuity [Member], USD $)
In Billions, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2013
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]  
Percent of future claim payments reinsured 100.00%
Maximum [Member] | Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit [Member]
 
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]  
Ceded Reinsurance Agreement, Coverage Limit, Amount Remaining 3.7