Stock-Based Compensation (Stock Options Outstanding) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
 12 Months Ended
Feb. 02, 2013
Jan. 28, 2012
Stock-Based Compensation    
In-the-money, Exercisable, Shares 1,369  
Out-of-the-money, Exercisable, Shares 8,925 [1]  
Total options outstanding, Exercisable, Shares 10,294  
In-the-money, Exercisable, Price $ 16  
Out-of-the-money, Exercisable, Price $ 46 [1]  
Total options outstanding, Exercisable, Price $ 42  
In-the-money, Total Outstanding, Shares 1,454  
Out-of-the-money, Total Outstanding, Shares 12,139 [1]  
Total options outstanding, Total Outstanding, Shares 13,593 14,667
In-the-money, Total Outstanding, Price $ 16  
Out-of-the-money, Total Outstanding, Price $ 43 [1]  
Total options outstanding, Total Outstanding, Price $ 40 $ 38
Common Stock. Closing Price at Year-End $ 19.88  
[1] Out-of-the-money options are those with an exercise price above the closing price of jcpenney common stock of $19.88 as of February 2, 2013.