<DefinitionAndReference>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUncertainTaxPositionsCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityFilerCategory">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlanCumulativeReturnOnPlanAssetsSinceInceptionPercent">
    <definition>The cumulative return on plan assets since inception of the plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmountsThatWillBeAmortizedFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossInNextFiscalYear">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OtherAccountsPayableAndAccruedExpensesTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Other Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses Table [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitsPaid">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingExpenses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesLeasingArrangements">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfRealEstateInvestmentTrustFairValueDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule Of Real Estate Investment Trust Fair Value Disclosure [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromSettlementsWithTaxingAuthorities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LossContingencyRangeOfPossibleLossMinimum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlanUnrealizedGainsLossesDuringPeriod">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan, Unrealized Gains (Losses) During Period</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OperatingLeasesWeightedaverageInterestRate">
    <definition>Operating Leases Weighted-average Interest Rate</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDeferredTax">
    <definition>Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Deferred Tax</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionsWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesOtherNoncurrent">
    <definition>Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other, Noncurrent</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OtherOtherAccountsPayableAndAccruedExpenses">
    <definition>Other, other accounts payable and accrued expenses</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfObligationsAndFundedStatusPostretirementBenefitTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Obligations and Funded Status Postretirement Benefit [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognizedRetirementSavingsPlan">
    <definition>The amount of the cost recognized during the period for the retirement savings defined contribution plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Assets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearTwo">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_CapitalExpendituresPayable">
    <definition>Capital expenditures payable</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlanFundedStatusOfPlanPercentage">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan Funded Status Of Plan Percentage</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentType">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsThatWouldImpactEffectiveTaxRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUncertainTaxPositionsNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfAmountsRecognizedInAccumulatedOtherComprehensivePostretirementPlanTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Postretirement Plan [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OtherNonFinancialAssetsMeasuredOnNonRecurringBasisCarryingValueOtherCorporateAssets">
    <definition>Other non-financial assets measured on a non-recurring basis, carrying value-other corporate assets</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LeveragedLeaseInvestment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaid">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitRealizedFromExerciseOfStockOptions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanActuarialNetGainsLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CapitalLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsPresentValueOfNetMinimumPayments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerBasicShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesReceivable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostDiscountRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearOne">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_VendorAllowancesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Vendor Allowances, Policy</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_QuarterlyResultsOfOperationsTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Quarterly Results of Operations Table [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationOptionsMaximumTerm">
    <definition>Share-Based Compensation, Options, Maximum Term</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesNetNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployerPerShareAmount">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan Contributions By Employer Per Share, amount</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ActiveStatusOfDefinedBenefitPlanPopulationCharacteristics">
    <definition>General characteristics relating to the participants active status for a defined benefit plan population.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanTargetAllocationPercentageOfAssetsEquitySecuritiesRangeMinimum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxesAndTaxCredits">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ReductionInTaxProvisionResultingFromStateTaxSettlementOnUnrecognizedTaxBenefits">
    <definition>Reduction In Tax Provision Resulting From State Tax Settlement On Unrecognized Tax Benefits</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LossContingencyAccrualCarryingValueProvision">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Cash">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_CurrentPortionOfPensionPlanLiabilityAccrued">
    <definition>Current Portion of Pension Plan Liability Accrued</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseCompensationAndBenefitsOther">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_MajorityOfLeasesExpirationTermInYears">
    <definition>Majority of leases expiration term, in years</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OperatingLeasesMaximumTermInYears">
    <definition>Operating leases, maximum term, in years</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlanActualFairValuePercentageOfAssetsDebtSecurities">
    <definition>Actual fair value of debt securities as a percentage of the total fair value of pension assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOtherOperatingExpenseIncomeTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule Other Operating Expense Income [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfEstimatedFutureBenefitPaymentsBenefitPlansTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Estimated Future Benefit Payments Benefit Plans [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_CooperativeAdvertisingVendorReimbursements">
    <definition>Cooperative advertising vendor reimbursements</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_AccountsPayableBenefitPlanAssets">
    <definition>This represents the accounts payable balance attributable to benefit plan assets at the measurement date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NatureOfOperations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesDeferredExpenseOtherCapitalizedCosts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_RewardsProgramPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Describes an entity's accounting policy for customer rewards programs.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized401K">
    <definition>The amount of the cost recognized during the period for the 401(k) defined contribution plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsPresentValueOfNetMinimumPayments">
    <definition>Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Present Value of Net Minimum Payments</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_AmendmentFlag">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFundedStatusOfPlan">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingOutOfMoneyWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>The weighted average price as of the beginning of the year at which grantees can acquire the out-of-the-money shares reserved for issuance under the stock option plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredDeveloperTenantAllowances">
    <definition>Deferred developer/tenant allowances</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccruedRentCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnRealEstateInvestmentArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax">
    <definition>Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized Holding Gain Loss On Real Estate Investment Arising During Period Net of Tax</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByPlanParticipants">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Liabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsSelfInsurance">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentsAwardsOptionsOutstandingInMoneyNumber">
    <definition>The number of shares reserved for issuance under stock option agreements awarded under the plan that validly exist and are outstanding, and are in-the-money, as of the balance-sheet date, including vested options.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LossContingencyRangeOfPossibleLossMaximum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccrualForTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationOptionAndIncentivePlansPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>This element describes an entity's accounting policy for stock option and stock incentive plans. This disclosure may include (1) the types of stock option or incentive plans sponsored by the entity (2) the groups that participate in (or are covered by) each plan (3) significant plan provisions and (4) how stock compensation is measured, and the methodologies and significant assumptions used to determine that measurement.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseGiftCards">
    <definition>Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Gift Cards</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanTargetAllocationPercentageOfAssetsDebtSecuritiesRangeMinimum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfDeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities)</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredStateAndLocalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_LineOfCreditFacilityCovenantComplianceAssetCoverageRatio">
    <definition>Line Of Credit Facility Covenant Compliance Asset Coverage Ratio</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_TotalStandbyAndImportLettersOfCredit">
    <definition>Total standby and import letters of credit</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OtherOtherAssets">
    <definition>Other, other assets</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanActualReturnOnPlanAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeNetGainsLossesBeforeTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PostemploymentBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfOtherNonFinancialAssetsFairValueDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule Of Other Non-Financial Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_PreOpeningExpensePolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Pre-Opening Expense, Policy</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_LineOfCreditFacilityTermInYears">
    <definition>Line Of Credit Facility Term In Years</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentImpairmentPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Property, Plant and Equipment, Impairment, Policy</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromCurrentPeriodTaxPositions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NotesPayableFairValueDisclosure">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_CommonStockClosingPriceAtYearEnd">
    <definition>Common Stock. Closing Price at Year-End</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CostOfSalesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlanTargetAllocationPercentageOfAssetsRealEstateAndOtherRangeMaximum">
    <definition>Target allocation maximum percentage of investments in real estate and other to total plan assets presented on a weighted-average basis as of the measurement date of the latest statement of financial position.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesUnrealizedGainOnInvestmentsAvailableForSaleSecurities">
    <definition>The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax arising from unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CostsAssociatedWithExitOrDisposalActivitiesOrRestructuringsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesForUnredeeemedGiftCards">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_NetUnrealizedGainsLossesAvailableForSaleSecuritiesPreTax">
    <definition>Net Unrealized Gains (Losses), Available-for-Sale Securities. Pre-Tax</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentsAwardsOptionsOutstandingOutOfMoneyNumber">
    <definition>The number of shares reserved for issuance under stock option agreements awarded under the plan that validly exist and are outstanding, but are out-of-the-money, as of the balance-sheet date, including vested options.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitFromCompensationExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCovenantDescription">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_FundedStatusAtReportingDatePeriodIncrease">
    <definition>Funded Status At Reporting Date, Period Increase</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPensionPlanRealizedGainsLossesDuringPeriod">
    <definition>Defined Benefit, Pension Plan, Realized Gains (Losses) During Period</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDefinedBenefitPensionAndOtherPostretirementPlansNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsInventory">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccruedAdvertisingCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_GuaranteeProgramMaximum">
    <definition>The maximum contractual authorization of a potential guarantee in which the maximum exposure amount is below the maximum authorization amount.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OperatingLeasesMinimumTermInYears">
    <definition>Oeprating leases, minimum term, in years</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OtherNonFinancialAssetsMeasuredOnNonRecurringBasisCarryingValueStores">
    <definition>Other non-financial assets measured on a non-recurring basis, carrying value-stores</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlanTargetAllocationPercentageOfAssetsRealEstateAndOtherRangeMinimum">
    <definition>Target allocation minimum percentage of investments in real estate and other to total plan assets presented on a weighted-average basis as of the measurement date of the latest statement of financial position.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanTargetAllocationPercentageOfAssetsEquitySecuritiesRangeMaximum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OtherOperatingExpenseIncome">
    <definition>Other Operating Expense Income</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostChangeDueToSubsequentInterimMeasurement">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesOtherCurrent">
    <definition>The current portion of cumulative amount of the estimated future tax effects attributable to other temporary differences not otherwise specified in this taxonomy that were expensed for tax purposes but capitalized in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, or which were recognized as revenue under GAAP but not for tax purposes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionContributions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationTaxEffectOfDiscontinuedOperation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRangeOfDividendsUsed">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ComponentsOfRentExpenseTextBlock">
    <definition>Components of Rent Expense</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInRetailRelatedInventories">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_PercentOfSharesHeldInPrimaryPensionPlan">
    <definition>Percent of shares held in primary pension plan</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_IncomeTaxesReceivableNetDeferredTaxAssetCurrent">
    <definition>Carrying amount due within one year of the balance sheet date (or one operating cycle, if longer) from tax authorities as of the balance sheet date representing refunds of overpayments or recoveries based on agreed-upon resolutions of disputes, as well as the net current deferred tax asset.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_LossGainAndPriorServiceCostRecognizedInNetPeriodicBenefitCost">
    <definition>The amount of gains or losses recognized in net periodic benefit cost, plus the amount of the prior service cost or credit recognized in net periodic benefit cost relating to benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingInMoneyWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>The weighted average price as of the beginning of the year at which grantees can acquire the in-the-money shares reserved for issuance under the stock option plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedIncomeTaxesPayable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_PlannedIncreaseDecreaseToTargetAllocationRange">
    <definition>Planned increase (decrease) to target allocation range.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfWeightedAverageActuarialAssumptionsForDefinedBenefitPensionObligationTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Weighted-Average Actuarial Assumptions for Defined Benefit Pension Obligation [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLifeAverage">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearThree">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLifeMinimum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnRealEstateInvestmentDeferredTax">
    <definition>Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Real Estate Investment, Deferred Tax</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_CurrentFederalAndForeignTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>The component of income tax expense for the period representing amounts paid or payable (or refundable) as determined by applying the provisions of enacted federal tax law to the domestic taxable income (loss) from continuing operations, plus applying the provisions of enacted foreign tax law to the foreign taxable income.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationCommonStockIncreaseUponExerciseOfAllOutstandingOptions">
    <definition>Share-Based Compensation, Common Stock, Percentage Increase Upon Exercise of All Outstanding Options</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfStockOptionsActivityTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule Of Stock Options Activity [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BuildingsAndImprovementsGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_AdditionalUnitsGrantedFromActualAwardPayoutAt154">
    <definition>Additional Units Granted from Actual Award Payout at 154%</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesPensionAndOtherRetireeObligations">
    <definition>The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects arising from the difference between tax and book pension expense, for pension and other retiree obligations.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfOtherAssetsNoncurrentTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ResearchDevelopmentAndComputerSoftwarePolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CapitalizedComputerSoftwareNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeNetPriorServiceCostCreditBeforeTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInFiveFiscalYearsThereafter">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestExpenseLongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PrepaidPensionCosts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestPaid">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfTargetAllocationRangesForDefinedBenefitPlanAssetsTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Target Allocation Ranges for Defined Benefit Plan Assets [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_FiscalYearPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Fiscal Year Policy [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseCompensationAndBenefitsCompensatedAbsences">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_BusinessExitCostsAssetImpairmentChargesOtherNoncashExpense">
    <definition>Business exit costs, asset impairment charges, other noncash expense</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_SharesHeldInFourZeroOneKPlanIncludingEsopShares">
    <definition>Shares held in 401(k) plan, including ESOP</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OtherLiabilitiesTableTextBlock">
    <definition>Other Liabilities Table [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsOfFinancingCosts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfCashProceedsTaxBenefitsAndIntrinsicValueRelatedToStockOptionsTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Cash Proceeds, Tax Benefits and Intrinsic Value Related to Stock Options</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_PercentOfSharesHeldInFourZeroOneKPlanIncludingEsopShares">
    <definition>Percent of shares held in 401(k) plan, including ESOP</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_PensionContributionNonCashCompanyStock">
    <definition>Pension Contribution, Non-Cash, Company Stock</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationOptionsAndAwardsAverageOfTotalOutstandingStock">
    <definition>Share-Based Compensation, Options and Awards, Average of Total Outstanding Stock</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_WeightedAverageMaturityOfLongTermDebt">
    <definition>Weighted-Average Maturity of Long-Term Debt</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlansFairValueByHierarchyInput">
    <definition>Represents summation of benefit plan assets by the established hierarchy input levels.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdvertisingCostsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CapitalLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_AggregateConsiderationOfNotes">
    <definition>Aggregate Consideration Of Notes</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableInMoneyOptionsWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>Weighted average exercise price as of the balance sheet date for those share-based payment arrangements exercisable, outstanding, and in-the-money.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlanActualFairValuePercentageOfAssetsRealEstateAndOther">
    <definition>Actual fair value of real estate and other as a percentage of the total fair value of pension assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredCostsCapitalizedPrepaidAndOtherAssetsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSalesMaturitiesSettlements">
    <definition>Fair Value, Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales, Maturities, Settlements</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfObligationsAndFundedStatusOfBenefitPlanTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Obligations and Funded Status of Benefit Plan [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredAssetAccruedRent">
    <definition>Deferred Asset, Accrued Rent</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_EffectOnRetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficitDueToChangeInMeasurementDateTax">
    <definition>Effect on Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Due to Change in Measurement Date Tax</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableOutOfMoneyNumber">
    <definition>The number of shares into which fully or partially vested stock options outstanding that are out-of-the-money as of the balance-sheet date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfAnnualPrincipalPaymentsOnLongTermDebtTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Annual Principal Payments on Long-Term Debt</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfStockBasedCompensationCostsTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule Of Stock Based Compensation Costs [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_EffectOnAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDueToChangeInMeasurementDateTax">
    <definition>Effect on Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Due to Change in Measurement Date, Tax</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_UncertainTaxPositionsRollforwardTextBlock">
    <definition>Uncertain Tax Positions Rollforward</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfLineOfCreditFacilitiesTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfLongTermDebtTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Long Term Debt</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestIncomeAndInterestExpenseDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ReclassificationsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Reclassifications, Policy [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasuredOnRecurringBasisInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CapitalLeaseObligations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLifeMaximum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsReductionsResultingFromLapseOfApplicableStatuteOfLimitations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfWeightedAverageActuarialAssumptionsForBenefitPlanExpenseIncomeTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule Of Weighted Average Actuarial Assumptions For Benefit Plan Expense Income [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ComponentsOfNetInterestExpenseTextBlock">
    <definition>Components of Net Interest Expense</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyAtCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnNonRecurringBasisOtherCorporateAssets">
    <definition>Fair Value Assets Measured On Non Recurring Basis Other Corporate Assets</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_SharesHeldInPrimaryPensionPlan">
    <definition>Shares held in primary pension plan</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDefinedBenefitPlansTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInitiationDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_MaturityYear">
    <definition>Year when the debt instrument is scheduled to be fully repaid.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlanActualReturnOnPlanAssetsPercent">
    <definition>The actual one-year return on plan assets at the measurement date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredTaxAssetsOtherCurrent">
    <definition>The current portion of the tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of estimated future tax deductions arising from other temporary differences not otherwise specified in the taxonomy.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ConsolidationPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_Other">
    <definition>Other</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DividendsPayableCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnamortizedDebtIssuanceExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CapitalLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_LineOfCreditFacilityCovenantComplianceFixedChargeCoverageRatio">
    <definition>Line Of Credit Facility Covenant Compliance Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_AmountOfCashTenderOfferForPurchase">
    <definition>Amount of cash tender offer for purchase</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_NumberOfStockholdersOfRecord">
    <definition>Number of stockholders of record</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityRegistrantName">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostRateOfCompensationIncrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalAfterYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_QuarterlyFinancialInformationTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeBeforeTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_EarningsPerShareComputationTextBlock">
    <definition>Earnings Per Share Computation [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateEffectivePercentage">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OpeningBalanceMeasurementDateAdjustmentToRetainedEarningsAndAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss">
    <definition>Opening Balance Measurement Date Adjustment to Retained Earnings and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_BusinessDescriptionAndAccountingPoliciesTextBlock">
    <definition>Aggregates business description and accounting policies concepts into a single text block. Business description describes the nature and type of organization including but not limited to organizational structure as may be applicable to holding companies, parent and subsidiary relationships, business divisions, business units, business segments, affiliates and information about significant ownership of the reporting entity. Accounting policies describes all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationStockAwards">
    <definition>The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based cost relating to stock awards.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Land">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnNonRecurringBasisStores">
    <definition>FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnNonRecurringBasisStores</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredTaxAssetsOtherNoncurrent">
    <definition>Deferred Tax Assets, Other, Noncurrent</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_PensionAndOtherPostretirementPlansPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Describes an entity's accounting policy for its pension and other postretirement benefit plans. This disclosure may address (1) the types of plans sponsored by the entity, and the benefits provided by each plan (2) groups that participate in (or are covered by) each plan (3) how plan assets, liabilities and expenses are measured, including the use of any actuaries and (4) significant assumptions used by the entity to value plan assets and liabilities and how such assumptions are derived.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerSharePolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_PaymentOf100AtEarningsAmountPerShare">
    <definition>Payment of 100% at Earnings Amount, Per Share</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveLossIncomeTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss)/Income</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOutOfMoneyOptionsWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>Weighted average exercise price as of the balance sheet date for those share-based payment arrangements exercisable, outstanding, and out-of-the-money.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_OtherOperatingExpenseIncomeTextBlock">
    <definition>Other Operating Expense Income Text Block</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeNetActuarialLossGainAndPriorServiceCostCreditPensionAndPostretirementPlansDeferredTax">
    <definition>Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net Actuarial Loss/Gain and Prior Service Cost/Credit - Pension and Postretirement Plans Deferred Tax</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_PercentageOfCompanyStockHeldWithinPensionPlanAssets">
    <definition>Percentage of Company Stock Held Within Pension Plan Assets</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriod">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationNetOfTaxBenefits">
    <definition>The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration, net of tax benefits. This may include the value of stock options, amortization of restricted stock, and adjustment for officers compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossPreTax">
    <definition>Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pre-Tax</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_FairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationOptionAndIncentivePlansValuationPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>This element describes an entity's valuation policy for stock option and stock incentive plans.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingBenefitObligationDiscountRate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WorkersCompensationLiabilityCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LeasePolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementDefinedBenefitPlansCurrentLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfAmountsRecognizedInAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForDefinedBenefitPensionPlanTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule Of Amounts Recognized In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss For Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostExpectedLongTermReturnOnAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwo">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ReconciliationOfFederalIncomeTaxRateTextBlock">
    <definition>Reconciliation of Federal Income Tax Rate</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockOptionsExercised">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesNetCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_MaturitiesOfSeniorDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_RentExpense">
    <definition>Rent expense (including capital and operating leases)</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfNonVestedStockAwardsTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule Of Non Vested Stock Awards [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_VestedPercentageOfDefinedBenefitPlanParticipants">
    <definition>Percentage of vested participants for a defined benefit plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_LineOfCreditFacilityCovenantComplianceLeverageRatio">
    <definition>Line Of Credit Facility Covenant Compliance Leverage Ratio</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ImpairedLongLivedAssetSoldDuringPeriod">
    <definition>Impaired Long-Lived Asset Sold During Period</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanTargetAllocationPercentageOfAssetsDebtSecuritiesRangeMaximum">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationFinancingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPensionPlanLiabilitiesNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SignificantChangeInUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIsReasonablyPossibleAmountOfUnrecordedBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearOnePriorYear">
    <definition>Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year One, Prior Year</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfEstimatedFutureBenefitPaymentsPostretirementPlanTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Estimated Future Benefit Payments Postretirement Plan [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseCompensationAndBenefitsShareBasedCompensationCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsAggregateGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>Share-Based Compensation, Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Aggregate Grant Date Fair Value</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarlyRepaymentOfSeniorDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredTaxAssetStateTaxes">
    <definition>Deferred Tax Assets, State Taxes</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPensionPlanParticipantPopulation">
    <definition>Number of defined benefit plan participants.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_RealEstateActivities">
    <definition>Real estate activities</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_UseOfEstimatesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Use of Estimates, Policy</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesAccrued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_PerformanceBasedAwardTargetPayoutRange">
    <definition>Performance-Based Award, Target Payout Range</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationStockOptions">
    <definition>The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based cost relating to stock options.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_TaxWithholdingPaymentsReimbursedByRestrictedStockFinancingActivities">
    <definition>Tax Withholding Payments Reimbursed By Restricted Stock Financing Activities</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredTaxAssetPensionAndOtherRetireeObligations">
    <definition>The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects arising from the difference between tax and book pension expense, for pension and other retiree obligations.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearFour">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfChangesInFairValueOfDefinedBenefitPensionPlanLevel3InvestmentsAssetsTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Changes in the Fair Value of Defined Benefit Pension Plan Level 3 Investments Assets [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitObligation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_CapitalLeasesWeightedaverageInterestRate">
    <definition>Capital Leases, Weighted-average Interest Rate</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfDefinedContributionPlanExpenseTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Defined Contribution Plan Expense [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfOutstandingOptionsExercisableAndUnexercisableTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Outstanding Options, Exercisable and Unexercisable</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInterestReceived">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableInMoneyNumber">
    <definition>The number of shares into which fully or partially vested stock options outstanding that are in-the-money as of the balance-sheet date can be currently converted under the option plan</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LeasesOfLesseeDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockCapitalSharesReservedForFutureIssuance">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfStockOptionAssumptionsTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Stock Option Assumptions</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAccumulatedBenefitObligation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GrossProfit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RestructuringCharges">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CurrentStateAndLocalTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_PensionAndOtherPostretirementDefinedBenefitPlanLiabilitiesNoncurrent">
    <definition>This represents the noncurrent liability recognized in the balance sheet that is associated with the defined benefit supplemental pension plans and other postretirement defined benefit plans. (The current liability will be separate, but it will normally be small, if there is even any at all.)</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteImpactOfConversionOfContingentlyConvertibleSecuritiesOnDilutedEarningsPerShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_RevenueRecognitionGiftCardsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Describes an entity's accounting policy for gift cards that it has issued, including its policy for recording a liability or deferred revenue and its policy for recognizing revenue when it is not anticipated that a customer will demand full performance (that is, breakage).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityPublicFloat">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingBenefitObligationRateOfCompensationIncrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_NetGainsSaleOfRealEstate">
    <definition>Net gains sale of real estate</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_FutureMinimumLeasePaymentsForNoncancelableOperatingAndCapitalLeasesTextBlock">
    <definition>Future Minimum Lease Payments For Noncancelable Operating and Capital Leases</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DeferredFederalAndForeignTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>The component of total income tax expense for the period comprised of the net change during the period in the entity's domestic deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to continuing operations as determined by applying the provisions of the federally enacted tax law, plus the net change during the period in the entity's foreign deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to continuing operations as determined by applying the provisions of applicable enacted tax laws of countries other than the country of domicile.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesIssuances">
    <definition>Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, Issuances for benefit plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedBenefitPlanActualFairValuePercentageOfAssetsEquitySecurities">
    <definition>Actual fair value of equity securities as a percentage of the total fair value of pension assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PreOpeningCosts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_ScheduleOfFairValueOfDefinedBenefitPensionPlanAssetsTextBlock">
    <definition>Schedule of Fair Value of Defined Benefit Pension Plan Assets [Text Block]</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GainsLossesOnExtinguishmentOfDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="jcp_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognizedMirrorSavingsPlan">
    <definition>The amount of the cost recognized during the period for the Mirror Savings defined contribution plan.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
</DefinitionAndReference>
