Annual report pursuant to Section 13 and 15(d)

Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details)

v2.4.0.6
Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
 12 Months Ended
Jan. 28, 2012
Jan. 29, 2011
Jan. 30, 2010
Number of states in which entity operates 45    
Maximum number of merchandise vendors providing advertising allowances 1,000    
Advertising and promotional costs, net of cooperative advertising allowances $ 1,136 $ 1,072 $ 1,087
Cooperative advertising allowances 371 345 298
Expiration date of gift cards issued before February 2, 2008, in years 2    
Number of years analyzed for gift card redemption patterns 3    
Minimum [Member]
      
Number of months sales are expected to occur after advertising and direct marketing programs 1    
Maximum [Member]
      
Number of months sales are expected to occur after advertising and direct marketing programs 4    
Vendor allowance terms (in years) 1    
Buildings and Building Equipment [Member]
      
Estimated useful life in years, minimum 15    
Estimated useful life in years, maximum 50    
Fixtures and Equipment [Member]
      
Estimated useful life in years, minimum 3    
Estimated useful life in years, maximum 15    
Software and Software Development [Member]
      
Estimated useful life in years, minimum 2    
Estimated useful life in years, maximum 5    
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
      
Credit card sales transactions settled early $ 107 $ 104