| Document and Entity Information | Jun. 11, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jun. 11, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Lincoln National Corporation |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | IN |
| Entity File Number | 1-6028 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 35-1140070 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 150 N. Radnor Chester Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Radnor |
| Entity Address, State or Province | PA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 19087 |
| City Area Code | 484 |
| Local Phone Number | 583-1400 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000059558 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock |
| Trading symbol | LNC |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
