Document and Entity Information Document
Nov. 15, 2019
Entity Information [Line Items]  
Document Type 8-K
Document Period End Date Nov. 15, 2019
Entity Registrant Name J. C. PENNEY COMPANY, INC.
Entity Central Index Key 0001166126
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2019
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q3
Amendment Flag false
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code DE
Entity File Number 1-15274
Entity Tax Identification Number 26-0037077
Entity Address, Address Line One 6501 Legacy Drive
Entity Address, City or Town Plano
Entity Address, State or Province TX
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 75024-3698
City Area Code 972
Local Phone Number 431-1000
Written Communications false
Soliciting Material false
Pre-commencement Tender Offer false
Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer false
Entity Emerging Growth Company false
NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, INC. [Member] | Common Stock of 50 cents par value [Member]  
Entity Information [Line Items]  
Title of 12(b) Security Common Stock of 50 cents par value
Trading Symbol JCP
Security Exchange Name NYSE
NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, INC. [Member] | Preferred Stock Purchase Rights [Member]  
Entity Information [Line Items]  
Title of 12(b) Security Preferred Stock Purchase Rights
Trading Symbol JCP
Security Exchange Name NYSE