Document and Entity Information
May 15, 2020
Document And Entity Information [Line Items]  
Entity Registrant Name J C PENNEY CO INC
Amendment Flag false
Entity Central Index Key 0001166126
Document Type 8-K
Document Period End Date May 15, 2020
Entity Incorporation State 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
Common Stock [Member]  
Document And Entity Information [Line Items]  
Security 12b Title Common Stock of 50 cents par value
Trading Symbol JCP
Security Exchange Name NYSE
Preferred Stock [Member]  
Document And Entity Information [Line Items]  
Security 12b Title Preferred Stock Purchase Rights
Trading Symbol JCP
Security Exchange Name NYSE