Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Schedule of other income (expenses) Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Total Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Investments [Abstract] Investments Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill Indefinite-lived intangible assets Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Definite-lived intangible assets, net Total Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill) Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net Income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Currency translation adjustments, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Net unrealized gains on defined benefit plans, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Nonredeemable noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest Redeemable noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive Income Attributable to Franklin Resources, Inc. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Dividend income Investment Income, Dividend Interest income Investment Income, Interest Gains on trading investment securities, net Trading Gain (Loss) Realized gains on sale of investment securities, available-for-sale Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains Realized losses on sale of investment securities, available-for-sale Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Losses Income (losses) from investments in equity method investees Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other-than-temporary impairment of investments Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Gains (losses) on investments of consolidated SIPs, net Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Trading Securities Gains (losses) from consolidated VIEs, net Gains Losses On Assets And Liabilities Of Consolidated Vies Net Gains (losses) on assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs, net. Foreign currency exchange gains (losses), net Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Realized Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total Other Nonoperating Income Interest expense Interest Expense Other Income, Net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Goodwill, Impairment Loss Goodwill, Impairment Loss Indefinite-lived intangible impairment Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Definite-lived intangible impairment Impairment of Intangible Assets, Finite-lived Definite-lived intangible assets weighted-average remaining useful life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Variable Interest Entities and Consolidated Sponsored Investment Products [Abstract] Variable Interest Entities and Consolidated Sponsored Investment Products [Abstract]. Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] INDIA INDIA Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Debt Securities [Member] Debt Securities [Member] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Consolidated sponsored investment products [Member] Consolidated sponsored investment products [Member] Consolidated sponsored investment products [Member] Consolidated variable interest entities [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Underlying Asset Class [Domain] Underlying Asset Class [Domain] Collateralized Loan Obligations [Member] Collateralized Loan Obligations [Member] Variable Interest Entities and Consolidated Sponsored Investment Products [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Number of sponsored investment products consolidated Number of sponsored investment products consolidated The number of sponsored investment products consolidated at period end. Gains (losses) from consolidated VIEs, net Debt, unpaid principal balance Long-term Debt Interest Rate, Minimum Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum Interest Rate, Maximum Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum Liquidation weighted average period Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Liquidating Investment, Remaining Period Consolidated SIPs' unfunded commitments Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Unfunded Commitments Unfunded commitments company contractually obligated to fund Unfunded commitments company contractually obligated to fund Portion of unfunded commitments that the company was contractually obligated to fund. Transfers into Level 2 from Level 1 - assets Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Transfers into Level 2 from Level 1 - liabilities Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Transfers into Level 1 from Level 2 - assets Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Transfers into Level 1 from Level 2 - liabilities Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Transfers into Level 3 - assets Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 - assets Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Transfers into Level 3 - liabilities Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Liability, Transfers Into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 - liabilities Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Liability, Transfers out of Level 3 Investments in various funds held by consolidated SIPs for which fair value was estimated using NAV Alternative Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Purchase of debt securities Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Number of SIPs Number Of Sponsered Investment Products Refers to number of SIPs. Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Shares of nonparticipating nonvested stock unit awards excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Total [Member] Total [Member] Total [Member] Total VIEs and SIPs [Member] Total VIEs and SIPs [Member] Total VIEs and SIPs [Member] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Receivables of consolidated VIEs Receivables, Fair Value Disclosure Equity securities Trading Securities, Equity Debt securities Trading Securities, Debt Investments, at fair value Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Total Assets Measured at Fair Value Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Other liabilities of consolidated SIPs Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Amortization of deferred sales commissions Amortization of Deferred Sales Commissions Depreciation and other amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Impairment of intangible assets Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Gains on sale of assets Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Other Assets Income from investments in equity method investees Net losses (gains) on other investments of consolidated sponsored investment products Net (gain) losses on other investments of consolidated SIPs The sum of the realized and unrealized net gain (loss) on other investments of consolidated SIPs during the period. Net gains of consolidated variable interest entities Gains Losses Of Consolidated Variable Interest Entities Net Net (gains) losses of consolidated variable interest entities. This element is a noncash adjustment to net income when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Other Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Increase in receivables, prepaid expenses and other Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Increase in trading securities, net Increase (Decrease) in Trading Securities Decrease (increase) in trading securities of consolidated sponsored investment products, net Increase in trading securities of consolidated sponsored investment products, net The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate market value of equity or debt securities that are purchased and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near future and benefiting from increases in prices relating to consolidated sponsored investment products. Decrease in accrued compensation and benefits Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities Decrease in commissions payable Increase (Decrease) in Payables to Broker-Dealers and Clearing Organizations Decrease in income taxes payable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Decrease in other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net cash provided by investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Purchase of investments Payments to Acquire Investments Liquidation of investments Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments Purchase of investments by consolidated sponsored investment products Purchase of investments by consolidated sponsored investment products The cash outflow associated with the purchase of all investments (debt, security, other) during the period by consolidated sponsored investment products. Liquidation of investments by consolidated sponsored investment products Liquidation of investments by consolidated sponsored investment products The cash inflow associated with the sale, maturity and collection of all investments such as debt, security and so forth during the period by consolidated sponsored investment products. Purchase of investments by consolidated variable interest entities Purchase Of Investments By Consolidated Variable Interest Entities The cash outflow associated with the purchase of all investments (debt, security, other) during the period by consolidated variable entities. Liquidation of investments by consolidated variable interest entities Liquidation Of Investments By Consolidated Variable Interest Entities The cash inflow associated with the sale, maturity and collection of all investments such as debt, security and so forth during the period by consolidated variable interest entities. Additions of property and equipment, net Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Net deconsolidation of sponsored investment products Cash and cash equivalents recognized due to net consolidations of sponsored investment products Cash and cash equivalents recognized due to net consolidations of sponsored investment products. Net cash provided by investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Decrease in deposits Increase (Decrease) in Deposits Issuance of common stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Dividends paid on common stock Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Repurchase of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Proceeds from loan Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Proceeds from issuance of debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Proceeds from debt of consolidated sponsored investment products Proceeds from issuance of debt by consolidated sponsored investment products The cash inflow during the period from additional borrowings in aggregate debt by consolidated sponsored investment products. Payments on debt by consolidated sponsored investment products Payments on debt by consolidated sponsored investment product The cash outflow during the period from the repayment of aggregate debt of consolidated sponsored investment products. Payments on debt by consolidated variable interest entities Payments on debt by consolidated variable interest entities The cash outflow for the payment of other borrowing by consolidated variable interest entities. Payments on contingent consideration liabilities Payments on contingent consideration liability The cash outflow relating to contingent consideration liability associated with business combination. Noncontrolling interests Proceeds from (Payments to) Noncontrolling Interests 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 Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Period Supplemental Disclosure of Non-Cash Activities Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Cash paid for interest Interest Paid Cash paid for interest by consolidated variable interest entities and consolidated sponsored investment products Cash paid for interest by consolidated sponsored investment products and consolidated variable interest entities Cash paid for interest by consolidated sponsored investment products and consolidated variable interest entities. Fair Value by Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value by Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Equity Securities [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Weighted Average [Member] Weighted Average [Member] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Domain] Valuation Technique [Domain] Market comparable companies approach valuation technique [Member] Market comparable companies approach valuation technique [Member] Market comparable companies approach valuation technique used to measure fair value. Market pricing approach valuation technique [Member] Market pricing approach valuation technique [Member] Market pricing approach valuation technique used to measure fair value. Income Approach Valuation Technique [Member] Income Approach Valuation Technique [Member] Market Approach Valuation Technique [Member] Market Approach Valuation Technique [Member] EBITDA multiple Fair Value Inputs, Earnings before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization Multiple Discount for lack of marketability Fair Value Inputs, Discount for Lack of Marketability Price to book value ratio Fair Value Inputs, Price To Book Value Ratio Ratio of an entity's stock price to its book value. Price to book (P/B) ratio is used as an input to measure fair value. Discount rate Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Risk premium Fair Value Inputs, Control Premium Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Aggregate carrying values of investment securities pledged as collateral Aggregate carrying values of investment securities pledged as collateral. Aggregate carrying values of investment securities pledged as collateral. Other-than-temporary impairment of investments Other-than-temporary impairment of cost-method Investments Cost-method Investments, Other than Temporary Impairment Investment Holdings [Table] Investment Holdings [Table] SIPs [Member] Sponsored Investment Products [Member] Sponsored Investment Products Investment [Line Items] Investment Holdings [Line Items] Other-than-temporary impairment of available-for-sale SIPs Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Available-for-sale Securities Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Debt and Other Equity Securities [Member] Debt And Equity Securities [Member] Represents portion of both debt and equity securities. Other Equity Securities [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Investment securities, trading Trading Securities Investment securities, available-for-sale Available-for-sale Securities Life settlement contracts Life Settlement Contracts, Fair Value Contingent consideration liability Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [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] Management contracts [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Customer base [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Gross Carrying Value Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Franklin Resources, Inc. [Member] Franklin Resources, Inc. [Member] The financial information of Franklin Resources, Inc., excluding the portion which relates to consolidated variable interest entities and consolidated sponsored investment products. Assets Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Receivables Accounts Receivable, Net Investments Investments Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill and other intangible assets, net Other Other Assets Total Assets Assets Liabilities Liabilities [Abstract] Compensation and benefits Employee-related Liabilities Accounts payable and accrued expenses Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Dividends Dividends Payable Commissions Commissions Payable to Broker-Dealers and Clearing Organizations Debt Debt of consolidated sponsored investment products Debt of consolidated sponsored investment products Carrying amount of long-term debt of consolidated sponsored investment products, net of unamortized discount or premium, including current and noncurrent amounts. Includes, but not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans and commercial paper. Excludes capital lease obligations. Debt of consolidated variable interest entities Debt of consolidated variable interest entities Carrying amount of long-term debt of consolidated variable interest entities, net of unamortized discount or premium, including current and noncurrent amounts. Includes, but not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans and commercial paper. Excludes capital lease obligations. Deferred taxes Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Other Other Liabilities Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies (Note 10) Commitments and Contingencies Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Temporary Equity, Carrying Amount, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Preferred stock, $1.00 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized; none issued Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $0.10 par value, 1,000,000,000 shares authorized; 586,134,232 and 603,517,181 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2016 and September 30, 2015 Common Stock, Value, Issued Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total Franklin Resources, Inc. stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Nonredeemable noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Liabilities, Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests and Stockholders’ Equity Liabilities and Equity Receivables [Member] Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Investments [Member] Investments [Member] Nonconsolidated maximum exposure to loss Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Gross Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Greater, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Greater, Gross Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Total Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Total Gross Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss Debt of consolidated SIPs Debt of consolidated VIEs Effective Interest Rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Other assets Other liabilities Total liabilities Franklin Resources, Inc.’s interests Total stockholders’ equity Total Liabilities, Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests and Stockholders’ Equity Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Summary of nonvested stock and stock unit award activity Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity [Table Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Schedule of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of balances of CSIPs and CVIEs Schedule of balances of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs [Table Text Block] [Table Text Block] for Schedule of balances of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs in the Company's balance sheets. Schedule of unpaid principal balance and fair value of investments and debt of CLOs Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of investments of CSIPs and CVIEs Schedule of investments of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs [Table Text Block] [Table Text Block] for Schedule of investments of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs. Schedule of debt of CSIPs and CVIEs Schedule of debt of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs [Table Text Block] [Table Text Block] for Schedule of debt of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs. Schedule of contractual maturities for debt of CSIPs and CVIEs Schedule of contractual maturities for debt of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs [Table Text Block] [Table Text Block] for schedule of contractual maturities for debt of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs. Schedule of balances of assets and liabilities of CSIPs and CVIEs measured at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of balances of assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs measured at fair value on a recurring basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of balances of assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Schedule of investments in fund products for which fair value was estimated using NAV as a practical expedient Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in Level 3 assets and liabilities of CSIPs and CVIEs on a recurring basis Schedule of changes in Level 3 assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in Level 3 assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs. Schedule of valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs used in recurring Level 3 fair value measurements Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block] Schedule of financial instruments of CSIPs and CVIEs not measured at fair value Schedule of financial instruments of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs not measured at fair value [Table Text Block] Schedule of financial instruments of consolidated VIEs and consolidated SIPs not measured at fair value. Schedule of changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests of CSIPs Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Table Text Block] Schedule of maximum exposure loss from nonconsolidated VIEs Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Investments of Consolidated VIEs [Member] Investments of Consolidated VIEs [Member] Investments of Consolidated VIEs [Member] Fair Value by Liability Class [Axis] Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] Debt of Consolidated VIEs [Member] Long Term Debt of Consolidated VIEs [Member] Long-term Debt of Consolidated VIEs [Member] Balance at beginning of period - assets Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Balance at beginning of period - liabilities Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value Adjustment for adoption of new accounting guidance New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in investment and other income, net - assets Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in investment and other income, net - liabilities Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Purchases - assets Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Purchases - liabilities Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Purchases Sales - assets Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Sales - liabilities Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Sales Settlements - assets Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Settlements - liabilities Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Settlements Foreign exchange revaluation Fair Value Measurement Effect Of Exchange Rate Changes This element represents the effect of exchange rate changes on the fair value measurement. Balance at end of period - assets Balance at end of period - liabilities Change in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income relating to assets and liabilities held at period end Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract] Net income attributable to Franklin Resources, Inc. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Less: allocation of earnings to participating nonvested stock and stock unit awards - basic Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings (Loss), Basic Less: allocation of earnings to participating nonvested stock and stock unit awards - diluted Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings (Loss), Diluted Net Income Available to Common Stockholders - basic Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net Income Available to Common Stockholders - diluted Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Weighted-average shares outstanding – basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect of nonparticipating nonvested stock unit awards Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding – Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings per Share Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Income Statement [Abstract] Operating Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Investment management fees Investment Advisory Fees Sales and distribution fees Sales And distribution Fees Includes commission received from the purchase or sale of securities on behalf of the entity's customers. For securities purchased, the commission is recorded as a receivable from customers; for securities sold, it is recorded as reductions in the payable to customers. Commissions earned are usually related to the broker-dealer's customers' trading volume and the dollar amounts of the trades. Also includes distribution fees received from the entity's mutual funds and certain other products in return for sales, marketing and distribution efforts on their behalf. Shareholder servicing fees Fees and Commissions, Transfer Agent Other Other Income Total operating revenues Revenues Operating Expenses Operating Expenses [Abstract] Sales, distribution and marketing Selling and Marketing Expense Compensation and benefits Labor and Related Expense Information systems and technology Communications and Information Technology Occupancy Occupancy, Net General, administrative and other General and Administrative Expense Total operating expenses Operating Expenses Operating Income Operating Income (Loss) Other Income (Expenses) Investment and other income, net Other income, net Income before taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Taxes on income Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income Less: net income (loss) attributable to Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Net Income Attributable to Franklin Resources, Inc. Dividends Declared per Share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Transfers out of Level 3 - assets Preferred stock, par value Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis, Valuation Techniques [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table] Trading Securities [Member] Trading Securities [Member] Life settlement contracts [Member] Life settlement contracts [Member] Life settlement contracts [Member]. Contingent Consideration Liability [Member] Contingent Consideration Liability [Member] Contingent Consideration Liability [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis, Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Liquidity discount Life Expectancy (in months) Fair Value Inputs Life Expectancy Life expectancy period expected for a life settlement contract payoff. AUM growth rate AUM growth rate The growth rate in assets under management used as an input to measure fair value. EBITDA margin Fair Value Inputs, Long-term Pre-tax Operating Margin, Percent Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of outstanding debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of contractual maturities of debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract] New Accounting Guidance New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Schedule of goodwill and other intangible assets, net Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of definite-lived intangible assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of estimated remaining amortization expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Table] Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Table] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Domain] Investments [Domain] Hedge Funds [Member] Hedge Funds [Member] Real Estate and Private Equity Funds [Member] Real Estate Investment [Member] Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items] Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items] Investments in funds products for which fair value was estimated using NAV Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Value [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Estimated Fair Value [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Level 2 or Level 3 [Member] Fair Value Inputs Level 2 and Level 3 [Member] Consists of Level 2 inputs which include observable inputs other than Level 1 quoted prices, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable or corroborated by observable market data; and Level 3 inputs which include unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity. Cost Basis Investment Owned, at Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Investment Owned, Unrecognized Unrealized Appreciation Gross Unrealized Losses Investment Owned, Unrecognized Unrealized Depreciation Fair Value Investment Owned, at Fair Value Face value of senior unsecured and unsubordinated notes Unsecured Debt Loan Secured Debt Stated interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Standby Letters of Credit [Member] Standby Letters of Credit [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Standby letter of credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Collateralized time deposit Pledged Financial Instruments, Not Separately Reported, Securities for Letter of Credit Facilities Commercial paper available for issuance under an uncommitted private placement program Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested awards net of estimated forfeitures Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Remaining weighted-average vesting period Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] Changes in total stockholders' equity Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] Stockholders’ Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Other debt securities Other equity securities Number of shares repurchased during period Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Cost of shares repurchased during period Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Additional number of shares authorized to be repurchased Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased Remaining number of shares authorized to be repurchased Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Other investments Other Investments Cost method investments Cost Method Investments Senior notes Senior Notes Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Summary of Investments Investment [Table Text Block] Summary of the gross unrealized gains and losses relating to investment securities, available-for-sale Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Summary of gross unrealized losses and fair values of investment securities in a continuous unrealized loss position Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Time-Based Shares [Member] Time-Based Shares [Member] Time-Based Shares [Member] Performance Shares [Member] Performance Shares [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Nonvested balance at October 1, 2015 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted 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/canceled Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Nonvested Balance at March 31, 2016 Nonvested beginning balance, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value of shares granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value of shares vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value of shares forfeited/canceled Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested ending balance, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Unpaid principal balance Difference between unpaid principal balance and fair value Fair Value, Option, Aggregate Differences, Loans and Long-term Receivables Fair Value Investments in equity method investees Equity Method Investments Total Investments Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Investment and other income [Member] Investment Income [Member] General, administrative and other expense [Member] General and Administrative Expense [Member] Other Income [Member] Other Income [Member] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) - assets Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) - liabilities Accounting Policies [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Temporary Equity, by Class of Stock [Table] Temporary Equity, by Class of Stock [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Member] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Member] The aggregate amount to be paid by the entity upon redemption of the security that is classified as temporary equity. Temporary equity is a security with redemption features that are outside the control of the issuer, is not classified as an asset or liability in conformity with GAAP, and is not mandatorily redeemable. Includes any type of security that is redeemable at a fixed or determinable price or on a fixed or determinable date or dates, is redeemable at the option of the holder, or has conditions for redemption which are not solely within the control of the issuer. If convertible, the issuer does not control the actions or events necessary to issue the maximum number of shares that could be required to be delivered under the conversion option if the holder exercises the option to convert the stock to another class of equity. If the security is a warrant or a rights issue, the warrant or rights issue is considered to be temporary equity if the issuer cannot demonstrate that it would be able to deliver upon the exercise of the option by the holder in all cases. Includes stock with put option held by ESOP and stock redeemable by holder only in the event of a change in control of the issuer. Temporary Equity [Line Items] Temporary Equity [Line Items] Beginning balance Net loss Net subscriptions (distributions) and other Noncontrolling Interest, Period Increase (Decrease) Net deconsolidations Net consolidation (deconsolidation) of sponsored investment products Net consolidation (deconsolidation) of sponsored investment products. Ending balance Other Income (Expenses) Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Total Proceeds from the sale of available-for-sale securities Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities Net gains recognized on trading investment securities Trading Securities, Change in Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Net gains recognized on trading investment securities of consolidated SIPs Consolidated Sponsored Investment Products Gains Losses Net Represents the net unrealized investment gains (losses) of consolidated sponsored investment products. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Unrealized Gains on Investments [Member] Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Currency Translation Adjustments [Member] Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Unrealized Losses on Defined Benefit Plans [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Balance at beginning of period Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Reclassifications to net investment and other income, net of tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Balance at end of period Schedule of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes during the period attributable to the following: (1) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), segregating those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) and gains or losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss), and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (2) purchases, sales, issues, and settlements (each type disclosed separately); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs), by class of asset or liability. Schedule of valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs used in level 3 fair value measurements Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of financial instruments not measured at fair value Financial instruments not measured at fair value [Table Text Block] Schedule of financial instruments not measured at fair value. New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Axis] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Axis] New Accounting Principles, Early Adoption [Domain] New Accounting Principles, Early Adoption [Domain] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member] Franklin Resources, Inc. Stockholders' Equity [Member] Parent [Member] Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Stockholders' Equity Rollforward Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance - Franklin Resources, Inc. Stockholders' Equity Beginning balance - Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interests Beginning balance - Total Stockholders' Equity Adjustment for adoption of new accounting guidance Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Net Income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive loss Cash dividends on common stock Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Repurchase of common stock Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value Net distributions Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Ending balance - Franklin Resources, Inc. Stockholders' Equity Ending balance - Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interests Ending balance - Total Stockholders' Equity Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Notes Due 2017 [Member] Notes Due 2017 [Member] Notes Due 2017 [Member] Notes Due 2020 [Member] Notes Due 2020 [Member] Notes Due 2020 [Member] Notes Due 2022 [Member] Notes Due 2022 [Member] Notes Due 2022 [Member] Notes Due 2025 [Member] Notes Due 2025 [Member] Notes Due 2025 [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Loan due March 2017 Face value of senior notes Debt Instrument, Face Amount Variable Interest Entities and Consolidated Sponsored Investment Products Variable Interest Entities and Consolidated Sponsored Investment Products [Text Block] Variable Interest Entities and Consolidated Sponsored Investment Products [Text Block] Components of basic and diluted earnings per share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]