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Equity And Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Schedule Of Changes In Components Of Total Equity) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2012
Mar. 31, 2011
Equity And Comprehensive Income [Line Items]    
Net income $ 1,686 $ 1,439
Other comprehensive income 129 244
Comprehensive income 1,815 1,683
Balance at beginning of period 49,938  
Net income 2,220 1,825
Other comprehensive loss (3) 2
Comprehensive income (2,223) (1,823)
Balance at beginning of period 85,908  
Net income 3,906 3,264
Other comprehensive loss 132  
Comprehensive income 4,038 3,506
Contributed capital 7  
Dividends declared (1,421)  
Common stock in treasury 267  
Distributions and other (378)  
Balance at end of period 51,750  
Balance at end of period 88,421  
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
    
Equity And Comprehensive Income [Line Items]    
Balance at beginning of period 49,938  
Net income 2,220  
Other comprehensive loss 3  
Comprehensive income 2,223  
Distributions and other (411)  
Balance at end of period 51,750  
Verizon [Member]
    
Equity And Comprehensive Income [Line Items]    
Balance at beginning of period 35,970  
Net income 1,686  
Other comprehensive income 129  
Comprehensive income 1,815  
Contributed capital 7  
Dividends declared (1,421)  
Common stock in treasury 267  
Distributions and other 33  
Balance at end of period $ 36,671