v3.4.0.3
Changes in Components of Total equity (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2016
Mar. 31, 2015
Equity Note [Line Items]    
Balance at January 1, 2016 $ 17,842  
Net Income 4,430 $ 4,338
Other comprehensive loss (91)  
Total Comprehensive Income 4,339 $ 4,143
Contributed capital (5)  
Dividends declared (2,303)  
Common stock in treasury 137  
Distributions and other 93  
Balance at March 31, 2016 20,103  
Verizon    
Equity Note [Line Items]    
Balance at January 1, 2016 16,428  
Net Income 4,310  
Other comprehensive loss (91)  
Total Comprehensive Income 4,219  
Contributed capital (5)  
Dividends declared (2,303)  
Common stock in treasury 137  
Distributions and other 165  
Balance at March 31, 2016 18,641  
Noncontrolling Interests    
Equity Note [Line Items]    
Balance at January 1, 2016 1,414  
Net Income 120  
Total Comprehensive Income 120  
Distributions and other (72)  
Balance at March 31, 2016 $ 1,462