Income Taxes Disclosure [Abstract] Abstract heading for the Income Tax disclosure. Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency by Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Contingency by Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Contingency Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Changes in unrecognized tax benefits Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Gross amounts of unrecognized tax benefits, beginning of period Unrecognized Tax Benefits Increases related to prior period tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Decreases related to prior period tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Increases related to current period tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Gross amounts of unrecognized tax benefits, end of period Accrued interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Abstract heading for the Goodwill and Intangible Assets disclosure Schedule of Goodwill Balances and Adjustments by Reportable Segment Schedule of Goodwill [Text Block] Schedule of Identifiable Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Text Block] Restructuring disclosure [Abstract] Abstract heading for the Restructuring disclosure. Schedule of Restructuring Activity [Table] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Restructuring [Table] Restructuring Reserve, by Type of Restructuring [Axis] Restructuring Reserve, by Type of Restructuring [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Facility Closing [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Restructuring Reserve Restructuring Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring reserve activity Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Accrued liability, beginning of period Restructuring Reserve Charges Restructuring Reserve, Period Expense Payments Restructuring Reserve, Settled with Cash Adjustment Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Accrued liability, end of period Treasury Stock Note Disclosure [Abstract] Treasury Stock Activities [Table] Treasury Stock Activities [Table] Stock Repurchase Event [Axis] Stock purchase event axis Stock Repurchases [Domain] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Stock Repurchase Programs [Member] Stock Repurchase Program 2010 [Member] September 2010 Stock Repurchase Program Member Stock Repurchase Program 2008 [Member] Stock Repurchase Program 2008 [Member] January 2008 Stock Repurchase Program Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Stock Repurchased Shares [Roll Forward] Stock Repurchased Shares [Roll Forward] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Treasury Stock, Shares, Beginning Balance Treasury Stock, Number of Shares Held Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired During Period Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Treasury Stock, Shares, Ending Balance Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share Stock Repurchased Value [Roll Forward] Stock Repurchased Value [Roll Forward] Treasury Stock, Value, Beginning Balance Treasury Stock, Value Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Treasury Stock, Value, Ending Balance Stock Repurchase Remaining Authorized Amount [Roll Forward] Stock Repurchase Remaining Authorized Amount [Roll Forward] Stock Repurchase Remaining Authorized Amount, Beginning Bal Stock Repurchase Remaining Authorized Amount Stock repurchase remaining authorized amount Treasury Stock Acquired Repurchase Authorization Amount Treasury Stock Acquired Repurchase Authorization Amount Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Stock Repurchase Remaining Authorized Amount, Ending Balance Equity Hedging Premium Settlements Equity Hedging Premium Settlements Derivative Instruments disclosure [Abstract] Abstract heading for the Derivative Instruments disclosure. Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Derivative Assets Reported in Other Current Assets [Member] Derivatives assets reported in other current assets. Derivatives Liabilities Reported in Other Current Liabilities [Member] Derivatives liabilities reported in other current liabilities member. Derivatives, Fair Value, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Domain] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Domain] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value of Derivative Contracts: Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Foreign exchange contracts designated as cash flow hedges - assets Derivative Asset Designated as Hedging Instrument, Fair Value Foreign exchange contracts designated as cash flow hedges - liabilities Derivative Liability Designated as Hedging Instrument, Fair Value Foreign exchange contracts not designated as hedging instruments - assets Derivative Asset Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, Fair Value Foreign exchange contracts not designated as hedging instruments - liabilities Derivative Liability Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, Fair Value Derivatives, assets Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Derivative Financial Instruments, Assets Derivatives, liabilities Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities Schedule of Changes in Unrecognized Tax Benefits Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Text Block] Stock-Based Plans Disclosure [Abstract] Abstract heading for the Stock Based Plans disclosure. Schedule of Stock Option Activity Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Text Block] Schedule of Restricted Stock Unit Activity Restricted Stock Unit Activity Table [Text Block] Schedule of Restricted Stock Unit activity. Schedule of Stock-Based Compensation Expense Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Text Block] Schedule of Weighted Average Assumptions Weighted Average Assumptions For Fair Value Calculation Of Stock Options [Text Block] Weighted average assumptions for fair value calculation of stock options Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Net income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation Other Comprehensive Income, Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net Other Comprehensive Income, Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, before Tax Unrealized gains (losses) on hedging activities Other Comprehensive Income, Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Tax benefit (provision) on above items Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Fair Value Measurement of Assets and Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract] Abstract heading for the Fair Value Measurement of Assets and Liabilities disclosure. Fair Value Measurement of Assets and Liabilities Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Net Revenue [Member] Net Revenue member. Interest Income And Other Income [Member] Interest and other income member Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Nondesignated [Member] Nondesignated [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Gain (loss) recognized from derivative contracts in the consolidated statement of income Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net Net Income Per Share Disclosure [Abstract] Abstract heading for the Net Income per Share disclosure. Net Income Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Segments disclosure [Abstract] Abstract heading for Segments disclosure Schedule of financial performance of operating segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Text Block] Skype Related Transaction Disclosure [Abstract] Abstract heading for the Skype Related Transaction disclosure. Skype Related Transaction [Table] Skype Related Transaction [Table] Skype related transaction amounts Skype Related Transaction Details Skype Related Transaction Details [Line Items] Detail items related to the Skype transaction. Repayment of Skype note receivable Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Net of Cash Divested Skype repayment of senior debt securities Proceeds from (Repayments of) Long-term Debt and Capital Securities Net gain on Skype loans Investment Income, Interest Impact on net income from Skype loans Impact On Net Income Skype Loans Skype related transaction impact on net income Reinvestment in senior debt securities issued by Skype Due from Related Parties, Noncurrent Skype senior debt securities, maturity (in years) Senior Debt Securities, Skype Reinvestment, Maturity, in Years The maturity period for the senior debt securities from the reinvestment in Skype. Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Abstract heading for the Commitments and Contingencies disclosure note. Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Pending or Threatened Litigation [Member] Pending or Threatened Litigation [Member] Settlement of Litigation [Member] Settlement of Litigation [Member] Contingency Disclosure Related To Litigation by Trial or Ruling [Axis] Contingency Disclosure Related To Litigation by Trial or Ruling [Axis] Axis to distinguish contingency related to litigation disclosure facts pertaining to specific litigation trials, hearings or court rulings. Litigation Trial, Hearing or Ruling [Domain] Litigation Trial, Hearing or Ruling [Domain] Domain for identifying specific litigation trial, hearing or ruling. June 2008, Paris France, Court of Commerce Ruling [Member] June 2008, Paris France, Court of Commerce Ruling [Member] Ruling of Paris Court of Commerce, in June 2008, on litigation between various plaintiffs and eBay and eBay International AG. November 2009, Paris France, Court of Commerce Ruling [Member] November 2009, Paris France, Court of Commerce Ruling [Member] Ruling of Paris Court of Commerce, in November 2009, on litigation and prior injunction ruling of June 2008, between various plaintiffs and eBay and eBay International AG. August 2009, Seoul Korea District Court, Trial [Member] August 2009, Seoul Korea District Court, Trial [Member] Trial, beginning August 2009, in Seoul Korea District Court, on litigation between various plaintiffs and eBay Korean susidiary IAC. September 2009, Seoul Korea District Court, Trial [Member] September 2009, Seoul Korea District Court, Trial [Member] Trial, beginning September 2009, in Seoul Korea District Court, on litigation between various plaintiffs and eBay Korean susidiary IAC. September 2010, Paris France, Court Of Appeal Ruling [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Loss Contingencies Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Litigation and Other Legal Matters Loss Contingency, Information about Litigation Matters [Abstract] Court Awarded Damages To Plaintiff(s) Court Awarded Damages To Plaintiff(s) Court awarded damages to the plaintiff(s) in a litigation suit against the entity. Daily Fines, Enforceable Daily Fines, Enforceable Enforceable daily fines against damages that were court awarded to the plaintiffs. Alleged Number of Infringed Net2-Phone Patents Alleged Number of Infringed Net2-Phone Patents The alleged number of Net2Phone patents infringed by eBay Inc., Skype Technologies S.A., and Skype Inc. Number of Users, Korean Subsidiary IAC, Approximate Number of Users, Korean Subsidiary IAC, Approximate The approximate total number of users of the Korean subsidiary IAC. Number of Users, Sueing Korean Subsidiary IAC, Approximate Number of Users, Sueing Korean Subsidiary IAC, Approximate The approximate number of Korean Subsidiary IAC users who are sueing in several lawsuits. Number of Representative Suits in Trial Number of Representative Suits in Trial Number of representative lawsuits included in a specific litigation trial. Consolation Money, Korean Court Precedent, Per User Consolation Money, Korean Court Precedent, Per User The precedent amount in Korea for court grants to plaintiffs as “consolation money” for data breaches, without a specific finding of harm from the breach. Segments Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Reserve, by Business Segment [Axis] Restructuring Reserve, by Business Segment [Axis] Axis for segmenting the restructuring costs by business segment. Segment, Business [Domain] Segment, Business [Domain] Market Places [Member] Market Places business segment Payments [Member] Payments business segment Restructuring and Related Cost, by Type of Restructuring [Axis] Restructuring and Related Cost, by Type of Restructuring [Axis] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense, General [Axis] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense, Name [Domain] Restructuring Costs Low [Member] Restructuring costs, low end of range Restructuring Costs High [Member] Restructuring costs, high end of range Restructuring and Related Cost Restructuring and Related Cost [Line Items] Employees Impacted by Consolidation Employees Impacted by Consolidation Employees impacted by restructuring. Restructuring and related costs, expected aggregate costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Restructuring and related costs, incurred to date Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Restructuring and related costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Reportable Segment, Incurred Cost Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule Of Net Income Per Share Basic And Diluted [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted [Table] Schedule of earnings per share basic and diluted combined. Net income per share, basic and diluted Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Line Items] Earnings per share, basic and diluted, line items abstract. Numerator: Earnings per Share, Numerator [Abstract] Earnings per share, numerator abstract heading. Denominator: Earnings per Share, Denominator [Abstract] Earnings per share, denominator abstract heading. Weighted average common shares - basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect of equity incentive plans Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Weighted average common shares - diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Net income per share: Net Income Per Share Heading [Abstract] Net income per share, heading abstract. Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Common stock equivalents excluded from income per diluted share because their effect would have been anti-dilutive Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Customer Lists [Member] Customer Lists [Member] Trademarks and Trade Names [Member] The rights acquired through registration of a a trademark or a business name, symbol or other device or style, to gain or protect exclusive use thereof. Developed Technology Rights [Member] Developed Technology Rights [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Inclusive of all intangible asset classifications not otherwise specified. Intangible Assets: Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Gross Carrying Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Weighted-Average Useful Life (years) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life Aggregate amortization expense for intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments: Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Provision for transaction and loan losses Provision For Transaction And Loan Losses Provision for loan and transaction losses Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Stock-based compensation Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Changes in assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Purchases of property and equipment, net Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Changes in principal loans receivable, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Loans Receivable Purchases of investments Payments to Acquire Investments Maturities and sales of investments Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collections of Investments Acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Purchases of common stock, net Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Tax witholdings related to net share settlements of restricted stock awards and units Payment For Tax Withholding Related To Vested And Released Restricted Stock Units Cash outflows associated with tax withholding obligations upon rlease of vested restricted stock units. Net payments from borrowings under credit agreement Repayments of Lines of Credit Funds receivable and customer accounts Net Change In Funds Receivable Net change in in funds receivable and customer accounts. Funds payable and amounts due to customers Net Change In Funds Payable Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Supplemental cash flow disclosures: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for interest Interest Paid Cash paid for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Non-cash investing and financing activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Common stock options assumed pursuant to acquisition Common Stock Options Assumed Pursuant To Acquisition Common stock options assumed pursuant to acquisition. Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Axis] Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Axis] Reporting Segment [Domain] Reporting Segment [Domain] Market Places [Member] Payments [Member] Communications [Member] Communications [Member] Communications segment Financial performance of operating segments Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information, Revenue from External Custosmers Segment Reporting Information, Revenue from External Customers Direct costs Direct Costs of Operating Direct costs include specific costs of net revenues, sales and marketing expenses, and general and administrative expenses, such as advertising and marketing programs, customer support expenses, bank charges, internal interest charges related to Bill Me Later, site operations expenses, product development expenses, billing operations, certain technology and facilities expenses, transaction expenses and provision for transaction and loan losses. Direct contribution Direct Contribution Direct Contribution Operating expenses and indirect costs of net revenues Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated, Amount Income from operations Operating Income (Loss) Interest and other income (expense), net Interest Income (Expense) And Other Interest and other non-operating income, net of interest expense and other non-operating expenses. Income before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Cumulative Effects of Changes in Accounting Principles, Noncontrolling Interest Schedule of Employee Service Stock-Based Compensation[Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Cost of Sales [Member] Selling and Marketing Expense [Member] Selling and Marketing Expense [Member] Product Development Expense [Member] Product development expense member General and Administrative Expense [Member] Stock-based Compensation Expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] Stock-based compensation expense Capitalized in product development Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Capitalized Amount Schedule of Commitments Details [Table] Schedule of Commitments Details [Table] Schedule of commitments details information. Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks by Financial Instrument [Axis] Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks by Financial Instrument [Axis] Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Financial Instruments [Domain] Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Financial Instruments [Domain] Unused lines of Credit [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit [Member] Commitments Details Commitments Details [Line Items] Line Items abstract for commitments details. Commitments Commitments [Abstract] Commitments abstract heading. Fair Value Disclosure, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Amount Fair Value Disclosure, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Amount Unused Commitment to Extend Credit to Customers Unused Commitment to Extend Credit to Customers The unused amount of credit eBay has commited to make available to our customers through issued lines of credit, Unsecured revolving credit facility, amount outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Unsecured revolving credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Effects Of Derivative Contracts On Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Effects Of Derivative Contracts On Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Effects of derivative contracts on accumulated other comprehensive income. Effect of Derivative Contracts on Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income: Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) [Roll Forward] Derivative instruments gain (loss) roll forward Accumulated OCI - Foreign exchange contracts designated as cash flow hedges, beginning of period Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Amount of gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income, Effective Portion, Net Amount of gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to income (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Accumulated OCI - Foreign exchange contracts designated as cash flow hedges, end of period Restricted Stock Unit [Table] Restricted Stock Unit [Table] RSU activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Stock-based Compensation Arrangement by Stock-based Payment Award Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Restricted Stock Unit Activity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Restricted stock units outstanding, beginning of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Awarded Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Restricted stock units outstanding, end of period Weighted average grant date fair value for restricted stock units awarded, during period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Disclosure [Abstract] Abstract heading for the The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies disclosure. The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs by Segment Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve Activity Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Assets [Abstract] Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Short-term investments Short-term Investments Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Loans and interest receivable, net Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Funds receivable and customer accounts Funds Receivable And Customer Accounts Funds receivable and customer accounts Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Long-term investments Long-term Investments Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Goodwill Intangible assets, net Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Funds payable and amounts due to customers Funds Payable And Amounts Due To Customers Funds payable and amounts due to customers Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue and Credits, Current Income taxes payable Taxes Payable, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Deferred and other tax liabilities, net Noncurrent Deferred And Uncertain Tax Liabilities Represents the noncurrent portion of deferred tax liabilities, which result from applying the applicable tax rate to net taxable temporary differences pertaining to each jurisdictionto which the entity is obligated to pay income tax, as well as the noncurrent portion of the amount recognized for unceratin tax position as of the balance sheet date. Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 7) Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock, $0.001 par value (as of 12/31/2009 & 09/30/2010); 3,580,000 shares authorized (as of 12/31/2009 & 09/30/2010); 1,297,799 (as of 12/31/2009) and 1,303,517 (as of 09/30/2010) outstanding Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Treasury stock at cost, 188,251 (as of 12/31/2009) and 201,382 (as of 09/30/2010) shares Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Schedule of Fair Value of Derivative Contracts Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Text Block] Schedule of Effect of Derivative Contracts on Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Effect Of Derivative Contracts On Accumulated Other Comprhensive Income [Text Block] Effect of hedge derivative contracts on accumulated other comprehensive income Schedule of Recognized Gains (Losses) of Derivative Instruments, by Location in Financial Statements Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Text Block] Stock Repurchases Stock Repurchases [Text Block] Stock repurchases text block Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table] Summarization of estimates for assets and liabilities measured by fair values on a recurring basis. Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Axis] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Axis] This element represents a number of concepts which are required or desirable disclosure items concerning assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments that are classified in stockholders' equity, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Domain] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Domain] Fair value estimates of assets and liabilities, measured on a recurring basis, domain of disclosure items. Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Cash And Cash Equivalents [Axis] FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisCashAndCashEquivalentsAxis Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Bank Deposits and Money Market Funds [Member] Bank deposits and money market funds member. Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Investments by Type [Axis] This element represents a number of concepts which are used to differentiate asset investments by investment type, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Major Types of Debt Securities [Domain] Restricted Cash [Member] Restricted cash member Corporate Debt Securities [Member] US Treasury and Government [Member] Bank Time Deposits [Member] Time Deposits and Other [Member] Time deposits and other member Equity Securities [Member] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Investments by Major Category [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Investments by Major Category Axis Fair Value of Investments by Major Investment Category [Domain] Fair Value of Investments by Major Investment Category [Domain] A domain for the fair value measurements by major investment category, including short-term and long-term investments. Short-term Investments [Member] Other Long-term Investments [Member] Derivative Assets Reported in Other Current Assets [Member] Derivatives Liabilities Reported in Other Current Liabilities [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items] Fair value assets and liabilties measured on a recurring basis line items abstract. Cash and cash equivalents Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Cash and Cash Equivalents Investments Fair Value, Measured on Recurring Basis, Investments Derivatives, assets Total financial assets Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Assets This element represents the total of certain statement of financial position asset caption which represents a class of assets, or which may include an individual asset, measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Derivatives, liabilities Fair Value Disclosure, additional details Fair Value Disclosure, Additional Details [Abstract] Abstract heading for additional details in the Fair Value disclosure note. Cost and equity method investments included in long-term investments Cost And Equity Method Investments Included In Long Term Investments Cost and equity method investments in long term investments. Pooling arrangement, cash withdrawals Pooling Arrangement Withdrawals Cash withdrawals, Europe Pooling arrangement, aggregate cash deposits Pooling Arrangement Deposits Aggregate cash deposits, Europe Promotional credit products maximum payment term (in months) Promotional Credit Products, Payment Term, Maximum The maximum payment term, in months, of promotional credit products offered to certain customers. Maximum percent of funds receivable and customer accounts balance below which includes receivables from promotional credit products Promotional Credit Product, Included in Funds Receivable and Customer Accounts, Percentage of Account Balance, Ceiling The maximum percentage of Funds Receivable and Customer Accounts total balance, below which may include receivables from promotional credit products. Schedule of Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Details [Table] Schedule of Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Details [Table] Schedule of details pertaining to the company and summary of significant accounting policies disclosure. Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Details Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Details [Line Items] Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, details line items. Primary business segments Primary Business Segments, Number The number of primary business segments operated. Equity stake in Skype Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Number of lagging quarters before entity share of Skype income(loss) will be recognized in interest and other income, net Revenue Recognition, Subsidiary Income (Loss), Lagging Quarters Until Recognized Revenue Recognition, Subsidiary Income (Loss), Lagging Quarters Until Recognized Assets and liabilities of majority-owned subsidiaries included in financial statements (in hundredths) Assets and Liabilities of Majority-Owned Subsidiaries Included in Financial Statements, Percent The percentage of assets and liabilities of majority-owned subsidiaries which are included in the financial statements. Equity method accounting policy, investment ownership range minimum (in hundredths) Equity Method Investment, Investment Ownership Percent Range, Minimum Minimum boundary of the range of investment ownership percentage for investments, in which eBay can exercise significant influence, that are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Equity method accounting policy, investment ownership range less than maximum (in hundredths) Equity Method Investment, Investment Ownership Percent Range, Ceiling Ceiling boundary of the range of investment ownership percentage for investments, in which eBay can exercise significant influence, that are accounted for using the equity method of accounting (the range is designated as below this boundary). Stock-Based Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Skype Related Transaction Skype Related Items [Text Block] Skype related items Restructuring Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Weighted Average Assumptions For Fair Value Calculation Of Stock Options [Table] Weighted average assumptions in tabular presentation Weighted Average Assumptions For Fair Value Calculation Of Stock Options [Axis] Weighted Average Assumptions For Fair Value Calculation Of Stock Options [Axis] Weighted average assumptions axis Weighted Average Assumptions For Fair Value Calculation Of Stock Options [Domain] Weighted Average Assumptions For Fair Value Calculation Of Stock Options [Domain] Weighted average assumptions domain Valuation Assumptions Weighted Average Assumptions For Fair Value Calculation of Stock Options [Line Items] Weighted Average Assumptions For Fair Value Calculation of Stock Options line items. Risk-free interest rates Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected lives (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments [Text Block] Derivative Instruments Schedule of Treasury Stock by Class [Text Block] Schedule of Treasury Stock by Class [Text Block] Stock Option Activity [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Stock Option Activity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Stock options outstanding, beginning of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period Exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Forfeited/expired/cancelled Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Stock options outstanding, end of period Weighted average exercise price of stock options granted, during period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted average grant date fair value of options granted, during period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Schedule of Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis [Text Block] This element represents the disclosure related to assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments measured at fair value that are classified in stockholders' equity, if any, that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The disclosures contemplated herein include the fair value measurements at the reporting date by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Income Statement [Abstract] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Parent Company [Member] Parent Company [Member] Net revenues Sales Revenue, Net Cost of net revenues Cost of Revenue Gross profit Gross Profit Operating expenses: Operating Expenses [Abstract] Sales and marketing Selling and Marketing Expense Product development Research and Development Expense General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Amortization of acquired intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Restructuring Total operating expenses Operating Expenses Provision for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income Net income per share: Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Weighted average shares: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic Diluted Schedule of Goodwill By Reportable Segment [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill by Segment [Axis] Goodwill by Segment [Axis] Goodwill, Segment [Domain] Goodwill, Segment [Domain] Goodwill, Not Allocated [Member] Goodwill, Not Allocated [Member] Goodwill Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill, beginning of period Goodwill, Including Equity Investments Goodwill, including equity investment. Goodwill Acquired Goodwill, Acquired During Period Adjustments Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments Goodwill, end of period Goodwill Related To Equity Investments Goodwill Related To Equity Investments Goodwill related to equity investments. Goodwill, Impairment Loss Goodwill, Impairment Loss Use of Estimates Policy Use of Estimates Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation Policy Consolidation, Policy [Text Block] Variable Interest Entity Policy Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy Revenue Recognition of Multiple Element Arrangements Policy Revenue Recognition, Multiple Element Arrangements Finance, Loans and Leases Receivable, Policy Finance, Loans and Leases Receivable, Policy Schedule of Net Income Per Share Basic and Diluted Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted [Text Block] Schedule of EPS basic and diluted textblock Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Abstract heading for the Document and Entity Information. Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Parenthetical [Abstract] Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Parenthetical [Abstract] Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury Stock, Shares Treasury Stock, Shares