AMAZON COM INC, 10-Q filed on 10/30/2020
Quarterly Report
v3.20.2
Cover - shares
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Oct. 21, 2020
Cover [Abstract]    
Document Type 10-Q  
Document Quarterly Report true  
Document Period End Date Sep. 30, 2020  
Document Transition Report false  
Entity File Number 000-22513  
Entity Registrant Name AMAZON.COM, INC.  
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code DE  
Entity Tax Identification Number 91-1646860  
Entity Address, Address Line One 410 Terry Avenue North  
Entity Address, City or Town Seattle,  
Entity Address, State or Province WA  
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 98109-5210  
City Area Code 206  
Local Phone Number 266-1000  
Title of 12(b) Security Common Stock, par value $.01 per share  
Trading Symbol AMZN  
Security Exchange Name NASDAQ  
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes  
Entity Interactive Data Current Yes  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Entity Small Business false  
Entity Emerging Growth Company false  
Entity Shell Company false  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   501,751,183
Amendment Flag false  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2020  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q3  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Central Index Key 0001018724  
v3.20.2
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]            
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $ 37,842 $ 22,965 $ 36,410 $ 32,173 $ 23,554 $ 21,032
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:            
Net income 6,331 2,134 14,109 8,320 17,377 11,347
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:            
Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment and capitalized content costs, operating lease assets, and other 6,523 5,563 17,633 15,619 23,803 19,881
Stock-based compensation 2,288 1,779 6,646 5,024 8,486 6,441
Other operating expense (income), net 67 47 416 114 466 186
Other expense (income), net (1,051) 388 (1,255) 246 (1,749) 443
Deferred income taxes 295 92 1,082 612 1,267 784
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:            
Inventories (3,899) (381) (3,178) (1,762) (4,694) (3,112)
Accounts receivable, net and other (2,016) (1,181) (3,608) (3,776) (7,515) (5,172)
Accounts payable 3,658 226 4,231 (2,490) 14,914 4,393
Accrued expenses and other (310) (722) (1,375) (4,277) 1,520 (1,612)
Unearned revenue 78 (53) 932 1,225 1,417 1,753
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 11,964 7,892 35,633 18,855 55,292 35,332
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:            
Purchases of property and equipment (11,063) (4,697) (25,317) (11,549) (30,629) (15,282)
Proceeds from property and equipment sales and incentives 1,255 1,312 3,467 2,800 4,838 3,414
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired, and other (1,735) (398) (1,945) (1,684) (2,722) (2,015)
Sales and maturities of marketable securities 13,135 7,251 32,899 15,056 40,525 16,994
Purchases of marketable securities (17,468) (8,542) (51,678) (25,368) (58,122) (27,428)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (15,876) (5,074) (42,574) (20,745) (46,110) (24,317)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:            
Proceeds from short-term debt, and other 1,311 415 4,361 722 5,042 1,292
Repayments of short-term debt, and other (1,349) (341) (3,886) (704) (4,701) (1,129)
Proceeds from long-term debt 0 287 9,994 453 10,412 589
Repayments of long-term debt (1,198) (14) (1,439) (115) (2,490) (124)
Principal repayments of finance leases (2,857) (2,307) (8,274) (6,848) (11,054) (8,754)
Principal repayments of financing obligations (12) 0 (44) (3) (68) (129)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (4,105) (1,960) 712 (6,495) (2,859) (8,255)
Foreign currency effect on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash 377 (269) 21 (234) 325 (238)
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash (7,640) 589 (6,208) (8,619) 6,648 2,522
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, END OF PERIOD $ 30,202 $ 23,554 $ 30,202 $ 23,554 $ 30,202 $ 23,554
v3.20.2
Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Total net sales $ 96,145 $ 69,981 $ 260,509 $ 193,086
Operating expenses:        
Cost of sales 57,106 41,302 154,023 111,559
Fulfillment 14,705 10,167 40,043 28,040
Technology and content 10,976 9,200 30,691 26,191
Marketing 5,434 4,752 14,605 12,707
General and administrative 1,668 1,348 4,700 3,791
Other operating expense (income), net 62 55 421 136
Total operating expenses 89,951 66,824 244,483 182,424
Operating income 6,194 3,157 16,026 10,662
Interest income 118 224 455 621
Interest expense (428) (396) (1,233) (1,145)
Other income (expense), net 925 (353) 1,165 (215)
Total non-operating income (expense) 615 (525) 387 (739)
Income before income taxes 6,809 2,632 16,413 9,923
Provision for income taxes (569) (494) (2,298) (1,588)
Equity-method investment activity, net of tax 91 (4) (6) (15)
Net income $ 6,331 $ 2,134 $ 14,109 $ 8,320
Basic earnings per share (in usd per share) $ 12.63 $ 4.31 $ 28.24 $ 16.87
Diluted earnings per share (in usd per share) $ 12.37 $ 4.23 $ 27.72 $ 16.53
Weighted-average shares used in computation of earnings per share:        
Basic (in shares) 501 495 500 493
Diluted (in shares) 512 504 509 503
Product        
Total net sales $ 52,774 $ 39,726 $ 144,859 $ 109,866
Service        
Total net sales $ 43,371 $ 30,255 $ 115,650 $ 83,220
v3.20.2
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]        
Net income $ 6,331 $ 2,134 $ 14,109 $ 8,320
Net change in foreign currency translation adjustments:        
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax of $1, $(15), $(6) and $(2) 408 (368) (260) (369)
Reclassification adjustment for foreign currency translation included in “Other operating expense (income), net,” net of tax of $29, $0, $29 and $0 0 (108) 0 (108)
Net foreign currency translation adjustments 408 (476) (260) (477)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale debt securities:        
Unrealized gains (losses), net of tax of $(2), $(10), $(13) and $(73) 35 9 239 85
Reclassification adjustment for losses (gains) included in “Other income (expense), net,” net of tax of $0, $5, $0 and $7 (17) (2) (22) (2)
Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale debt securities 18 7 217 83
Other comprehensive income (loss) 426 (469) (43) (394)
Comprehensive income $ 6,757 $ 1,665 $ 14,066 $ 7,926
v3.20.2
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]        
Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax $ (15) $ 1 $ (2) $ (6)
Reclassification adjustment for foreign currency translation included in "Other operating expense (income) net, tax 0 29 0 29
Unrealized gains (losses), tax (10) (2) (73) (13)
Reclassification adjustment for losses (gains) included in “Other income (expense), net,” tax $ 5 $ 0 $ 7 $ 0
v3.20.2
Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Current assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 29,930 $ 36,092
Marketable securities 38,472 18,929
Inventories 23,735 20,497
Accounts receivable, net and other 20,832 20,816
Total current assets 112,969 96,334
Property and equipment, net 99,981 72,705
Operating leases 34,119 25,141
Goodwill 14,960 14,754
Other assets 20,150 16,314
Total assets 282,179 225,248
Current liabilities:    
Accounts payable 58,334 47,183
Accrued expenses and other 34,327 32,439
Unearned revenue 9,251 8,190
Total current liabilities 101,912 87,812
Long-term lease liabilities 48,589 39,791
Long-term debt 32,929 23,414
Other long-term liabilities 15,974 12,171
Commitments and contingencies (Note 4)
Stockholders’ equity:    
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares - 500 Issued and outstanding shares - none 0 0
Common stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares - 5,000 Issued shares - 521 and 525 Outstanding shares - 498 and 502 5 5
Treasury stock, at cost (1,837) (1,837)
Additional paid-in capital 40,307 33,658
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (1,029) (986)
Retained earnings 45,329 31,220
Total stockholders’ equity 82,775 62,060
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 282,179 $ 225,248
v3.20.2
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]    
Preferred stock, par value (in usd per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Preferred stock, authorized (in shares) 500,000,000 500,000,000
Preferred stock, issued (in shares) 0 0
Preferred stock, outstanding (in shares) 0 0
Common stock, par value (in usd per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Common stock, authorized (in shares) 5,000,000,000 5,000,000,000
Common stock, issued (in shares) 525,000,000 521,000,000
Common stock, outstanding (in shares) 502,000,000 498,000,000
v3.20.2
Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES
Unaudited Interim Financial Information
We have prepared the accompanying consolidated financial statements pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for interim financial reporting. These consolidated financial statements are unaudited and, in our opinion, include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments and accruals necessary for a fair presentation of our consolidated cash flows, operating results, and balance sheets for the periods presented. Operating results for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for 2020 due to seasonal and other factors. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) have been omitted in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes in Item 8 of Part II, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” of our 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Prior Period Reclassifications
Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. Proceeds from and repayments of short-term debt, and other were reclassified from proceeds from and repayments of long-term debt, and other on our consolidated statements of cash flows.
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Amazon.com, Inc. and its consolidated entities (collectively, the “Company”), consisting of its wholly-owned subsidiaries and those entities in which we have a variable interest and of which we are the primary beneficiary, including certain entities in India and certain entities that support our seller lending financing activities. Intercompany balances and transactions between consolidated entities are eliminated.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent liabilities in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Estimates are used for, but not limited to, income taxes, useful lives of equipment, commitments and contingencies, valuation of acquired intangibles and goodwill, stock-based compensation forfeiture rates, vendor funding, inventory valuation, collectability of receivables, and valuation and impairment of investments. Given the global economic climate and additional or unforeseen effects from the COVID-19 pandemic, these estimates have become more challenging, and actual results could differ materially from these estimates.
We review the useful lives of equipment on an ongoing basis, and effective January 1, 2020 we changed our estimate of the useful life for our servers from three to four years. The longer useful life is due to continuous improvements in our hardware, software, and data center designs. The effect of this change in estimate for Q3 2020, based on servers that were included in “Property and equipment, net” as of June 30, 2020 and those acquired during the quarter ended September 30, 2020, was a reduction in depreciation and amortization expense of $634 million and an increase in net income of $479 million, or $0.95 per basic share and $0.93 per diluted share. The effect of this change in estimate for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, based on servers that were included in “Property and equipment, net” as of December 31, 2019 and those acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, was a reduction in depreciation and amortization expense of $2.1 billion and an increase in net income of $1.6 billion, or $3.23 per basic share and $3.18 per diluted share.
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
The following table shows supplemental cash flow information (in millions):
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
Twelve Months Ended
September 30,
201920202019202020192020
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid for interest on debt$287 $285 $720 $715 $842 $869 
Cash paid for operating leases872 1,159 2,420 3,275 2,420 4,215 
Cash paid for interest on finance leases167 155 481 484 585 650 
Cash paid for interest on financing obligations14 28 20 71 72 90 
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds241 502 692 1,293 863 1,481 
Assets acquired under operating leases2,299 6,115 5,393 11,870 5,393 14,346 
Property and equipment acquired under finance leases3,606 3,571 9,541 8,892 13,222 13,075 
Property and equipment acquired under build-to-suit arrangements390 366 1,109 1,228 2,252 1,480 
Earnings per Share
Basic earnings per share is calculated using our weighted-average outstanding common shares. Diluted earnings per share is calculated using our weighted-average outstanding common shares including the dilutive effect of stock awards as determined under the treasury stock method. In periods when we have a net loss, stock awards are excluded from our calculation of earnings per share as their inclusion would have an antidilutive effect.
The following table shows the calculation of diluted shares (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 2019202020192020
Shares used in computation of basic earnings per share495 501 493 500 
Total dilutive effect of outstanding stock awards11 10 
Shares used in computation of diluted earnings per share504 512 503 509 
Inventories
Inventories, consisting of products available for sale, are primarily accounted for using the first-in, first-out method, and are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value. This valuation requires us to make judgments, based on currently available information, about the likely method of disposition, such as through sales to individual customers, returns to product vendors, or liquidations, and expected recoverable values of each disposition category. The inventory valuation allowance, representing a write-down of inventory, was $1.6 billion and $1.9 billion as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.
Accounts Receivable, Net and Other
Included in “Accounts receivable, net and other” on our consolidated balance sheets are amounts primarily related to customers, vendors, and sellers. As of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020, customer receivables, net, were $12.6 billion and $13.1 billion, vendor receivables, net, were $4.2 billion and $3.3 billion, and seller receivables, net, were $863 million and $446 million. Seller receivables are amounts due from sellers related to our seller lending program, which provides funding to sellers primarily to procure inventory.
We estimate losses on receivables based on expected losses, including our historical experience of actual losses. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $718 million and $968 million as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.
Digital Video and Music Content
The total capitalized costs of video, which is primarily released content, and music as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020 were $5.8 billion and $6.3 billion. Total video and music expense was $1.9 billion and $2.8 billion in Q3 2019 and Q3 2020, and $5.5 billion and $8.0 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2020.
Unearned Revenue
Unearned revenue is recorded when payments are received or due in advance of performing our service obligations and is recognized over the service period. Unearned revenue primarily relates to prepayments of AWS services and Amazon Prime memberships. Our total unearned revenue as of December 31, 2019 was $10.2 billion, of which $7.1 billion was recognized as
revenue during the nine months ended September 30, 2020. Included in “Other long-term liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheets was $2.0 billion and $1.9 billion of unearned revenue as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.
Additionally, we have performance obligations, primarily related to AWS, associated with commitments in customer contracts for future services that have not yet been recognized in our consolidated financial statements. For contracts with original terms that exceed one year, those commitments not yet recognized were $44.8 billion as of September 30, 2020. The weighted average remaining life of our long-term contracts is 3.4 years. However, the amount and timing of revenue recognition is largely driven by customer usage, which can extend beyond the original contractual term.
v3.20.2
Financial Instruments
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Financial Instruments FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Marketable Securities
As of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020, our cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and marketable securities primarily consisted of cash, AAA-rated money market funds, U.S. and foreign government and agency securities, and other investment grade securities. Cash equivalents and marketable securities are recorded at fair value. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. To increase the comparability of fair value measures, the following hierarchy prioritizes the inputs to valuation methodologies used to measure fair value:
Level 1—Valuations based on quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in active markets.
Level 2—Valuations based on observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3—Valuations based on unobservable inputs reflecting our own assumptions, consistent with reasonably available assumptions made by other market participants. These valuations require significant judgment.
We measure the fair value of money market funds and certain marketable equity securities based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Other marketable securities were valued either based on recent trades of securities in inactive markets or based on quoted market prices of similar instruments and other significant inputs derived from or corroborated by observable market data. We did not hold significant amounts of cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, or marketable securities categorized as Level 3 assets as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.
The following table summarizes, by major security type, our cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and marketable securities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and are categorized using the fair value hierarchy (in millions):
 December 31, 2019September 30, 2020
  
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
Cost or
Amortized
Cost
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
Cash$9,776 $9,553 $— — $9,553 
Level 1 securities:
Money market funds18,850 17,701 — — 17,701 
Equity securities (1)202 452 
Level 2 securities:
Foreign government and agency securities4,794 10,270 — 10,271 
U.S. government and agency securities7,080 7,656 34 (3)7,687 
Corporate debt securities11,881 18,849 276 (5)19,120 
Asset-backed securities2,360 3,245 31 (5)3,271 
Other fixed income securities394 500 — 508 
Equity securities (1)114 
$55,342 $67,774 $350 $(13)$68,677 
Less: Restricted cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities (2)(321)(275)
Total cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities$55,021 $68,402 
___________________
(1)The related unrealized gain (loss) recorded in “Other income (expense), net” was $(55) million and $150 million in Q3 2019 and Q3 2020, and $27 million and $351 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2020.
(2)We are required to pledge or otherwise restrict a portion of our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities as collateral for real estate leases, amounts due to third-party sellers in certain jurisdictions, debt, and standby and trade letters of credit. We classify cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities with use restrictions of less than twelve months as “Accounts receivable, net and other” and of twelve months or longer as non-current “Other assets” on our consolidated balance sheets. See “Note 4 — Commitments and Contingencies.”
The following table summarizes the remaining contractual maturities of our cash equivalents and marketable fixed income securities as of September 30, 2020 (in millions):
Amortized
Cost
Estimated
Fair Value
Due within one year$38,791 $38,803 
Due after one year through five years16,106 16,400 
Due after five years through ten years753 758 
Due after ten years2,571 2,597 
Total$58,221 $58,558 
Actual maturities may differ from the contractual maturities because borrowers may have certain prepayment conditions.
Equity Warrants and Non-Marketable Equity Investments
We hold equity warrants giving us the right to acquire stock of other companies. As of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020, these warrants had a fair value of $669 million and $1.4 billion, and are recorded within “Other assets” on our consolidated balance sheets with gains and losses recognized in “Other income (expense), net” on our consolidated statements of operations. These warrants are primarily classified as Level 2 assets.
As of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020, equity investments not accounted for under the equity-method and without readily determinable fair values, had a carrying value of $1.5 billion and $2.6 billion, and are recorded within “Other assets” on our consolidated balance sheets with adjustments recognized in “Other income (expense), net” on our consolidated statements of operations.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Reconciliation
The following table provides a reconciliation of the amount of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the consolidated balance sheets to the total of the same such amounts shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows (in millions):
December 31, 2019September 30, 2020
Cash and cash equivalents$36,092 $29,930 
Restricted cash included in accounts receivable, net and other276 239 
Restricted cash included in other assets42 33 
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows$36,410 $30,202 
v3.20.2
Leases
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Leases [Abstract]  
Leases LEASES
Gross assets acquired under finance leases, inclusive of those where title transfers at the end of the lease, are recorded in “Property and equipment, net” and were $57.4 billion and $64.9 billion as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020. Accumulated amortization associated with finance leases was $30.0 billion and $34.2 billion as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.
Lease cost recognized in our consolidated statements of operations is summarized as follows (in millions):
Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2019202020192020
Operating lease cost$934 $1,334 $2,644 $3,551 
Finance lease cost:
Amortization of lease assets2,609 2,200 7,319 6,123 
Interest on lease liabilities164 154 479 474 
Finance lease cost2,773 2,354 7,798 6,597 
Variable lease cost244 308 775 866 
Total lease cost$3,951 $3,996 $11,217 $11,014 
Other information about lease amounts recognized in our consolidated financial statements is summarized as follows:
 December 31, 2019September 30, 2020
Weighted-average remaining lease term – operating leases11.5 years11.1 years
Weighted-average remaining lease term – finance leases5.5 years6.1 years
Weighted-average discount rate – operating leases3.1 %2.6 %
Weighted-average discount rate – finance leases2.7 %2.3 %
Our lease liabilities were as follows (in millions):
December 31, 2019
 Operating LeasesFinance LeasesTotal
Gross lease liabilities$31,963 $28,875 $60,838 
Less: imputed interest(6,128)(1,896)(8,024)
Present value of lease liabilities25,835 26,979 52,814 
Less: current portion of lease liabilities(3,139)(9,884)(13,023)
Total long-term lease liabilities$22,696 $17,095 $39,791 
September 30, 2020
 Operating LeasesFinance LeasesTotal
Gross lease liabilities$42,014 $29,801 $71,815 
Less: imputed interest(6,759)(2,051)(8,810)
Present value of lease liabilities35,255 27,750 63,005 
Less: current portion of lease liabilities(4,156)(10,260)(14,416)
Total long-term lease liabilities$31,099 $17,490 $48,589 
Leases LEASES
Gross assets acquired under finance leases, inclusive of those where title transfers at the end of the lease, are recorded in “Property and equipment, net” and were $57.4 billion and $64.9 billion as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020. Accumulated amortization associated with finance leases was $30.0 billion and $34.2 billion as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.
Lease cost recognized in our consolidated statements of operations is summarized as follows (in millions):
Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2019202020192020
Operating lease cost$934 $1,334 $2,644 $3,551 
Finance lease cost:
Amortization of lease assets2,609 2,200 7,319 6,123 
Interest on lease liabilities164 154 479 474 
Finance lease cost2,773 2,354 7,798 6,597 
Variable lease cost244 308 775 866 
Total lease cost$3,951 $3,996 $11,217 $11,014 
Other information about lease amounts recognized in our consolidated financial statements is summarized as follows:
 December 31, 2019September 30, 2020
Weighted-average remaining lease term – operating leases11.5 years11.1 years
Weighted-average remaining lease term – finance leases5.5 years6.1 years
Weighted-average discount rate – operating leases3.1 %2.6 %
Weighted-average discount rate – finance leases2.7 %2.3 %
Our lease liabilities were as follows (in millions):
December 31, 2019
 Operating LeasesFinance LeasesTotal
Gross lease liabilities$31,963 $28,875 $60,838 
Less: imputed interest(6,128)(1,896)(8,024)
Present value of lease liabilities25,835 26,979 52,814 
Less: current portion of lease liabilities(3,139)(9,884)(13,023)
Total long-term lease liabilities$22,696 $17,095 $39,791 
September 30, 2020
 Operating LeasesFinance LeasesTotal
Gross lease liabilities$42,014 $29,801 $71,815 
Less: imputed interest(6,759)(2,051)(8,810)
Present value of lease liabilities35,255 27,750 63,005 
Less: current portion of lease liabilities(4,156)(10,260)(14,416)
Total long-term lease liabilities$31,099 $17,490 $48,589 
v3.20.2
Commitments and Contingencies
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Commitments and Contingencies COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments
We have entered into non-cancellable operating and finance leases and financing obligations for equipment and office, fulfillment, sortation, delivery, data center, physical store, and renewable energy facilities.
The following summarizes our principal contractual commitments, excluding open orders for purchases that support normal operations and are generally cancellable, as of September 30, 2020 (in millions): 
 Three Months Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,  
 20202021202220232024ThereafterTotal
Long-term debt principal and interest$282 $2,188 $2,647 $3,271 $4,272 $38,738 $51,398 
Operating lease liabilities1,139 5,032 4,584 4,204 3,865 23,190 42,014 
Finance lease liabilities, including interest2,363 10,145 6,507 2,753 1,291 6,742 29,801 
Financing obligations, including interest48 211 214 217 220 3,694 4,604 
Unconditional purchase obligations (1)416 4,027 3,562 3,194 3,049 2,296 16,544 
Other commitments (2) (3)1,260 3,963 3,290 2,268 2,238 23,612 36,631 
Total commitments$5,508 $25,566 $20,804 $15,907 $14,935 $98,272 $180,992 
___________________
(1)Includes unconditional purchase obligations related to certain products offered in our Whole Foods Market stores and long-term agreements to acquire and license digital media content that are not reflected on the consolidated balance sheets. For those digital media content agreements with variable terms, we do not estimate the total obligation beyond any minimum quantities and/or pricing as of the reporting date. Purchase obligations associated with renewal provisions solely at the option of the content provider are included to the extent such commitments are fixed or a minimum amount is specified.
(2)Includes the estimated timing and amounts of payments for rent and tenant improvements associated with build-to-suit lease arrangements and lease arrangements prior to the lease commencement date, liabilities associated with digital media content agreements with initial terms greater than one year, and asset retirement obligations.
(3)Excludes approximately $3.0 billion of accrued tax contingencies for which we cannot make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amount and period of payment, if any.
Pledged Assets
As of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020, we have pledged or otherwise restricted $994 million and $921 million of our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities, and certain property and equipment as collateral for real estate leases, amounts due to third-party sellers in certain jurisdictions, debt, and standby and trade letters of credit. Additionally, we have pledged our cash and seller receivables for debt related to our Credit Facility. See “Note 5 — Debt.”
Other Contingencies
We are subject to claims related to various indirect taxes (such as sales, value added, consumption, service, and similar taxes), including in jurisdictions in which we already collect and remit such taxes. If the relevant taxing authorities were successfully to pursue these claims, we could be subject to significant additional tax liabilities. For example, in June 2017, the State of South Carolina issued an assessment for uncollected sales and use taxes for the period from January 2016 to March 2016, including interest and penalties. South Carolina is alleging that we should have collected sales and use taxes on transactions by our third-party sellers. In September 2019, the South Carolina Administrative Law Court ruled in favor of the Department of Revenue and we have appealed the decision to the state Court of Appeals. We believe the assessment is without merit and intend to defend ourselves vigorously in this matter. If other tax authorities were successfully to seek additional adjustments of a similar nature, we could be subject to significant additional tax liabilities.
Legal Proceedings
The Company is involved from time to time in claims, proceedings, and litigation, including the matters described in Item 8 of Part II, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data — Note 7 — Commitments and Contingencies — Legal Proceedings” of our 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K and in Item 1 of Part I, “Financial Statements — Note 4 — Commitments and Contingencies — Legal Proceedings” of our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the periods ended March 31, 2020 and June 30, 2020.
In addition, we are regularly subject to claims, litigation, and other proceedings, including potential regulatory proceedings, involving patent and other intellectual property matters, taxes, labor and employment, competition and antitrust, privacy and data protection, consumer protection, commercial disputes, goods and services offered by us and by third parties, and other matters.
The outcomes of our legal proceedings and other contingencies are inherently unpredictable, subject to significant uncertainties, and could be material to our operating results and cash flows for a particular period. We evaluate, on a regular basis, developments in our legal proceedings and other contingencies that could affect the amount of liability, including amounts in excess of any previous accruals and reasonably possible losses disclosed, and make adjustments and changes to our accruals and disclosures as appropriate. For the matters we disclose that do not include an estimate of the amount of loss or range of losses, such an estimate is not possible or is immaterial, and we may be unable to estimate the possible loss or range of losses that could potentially result from the application of non-monetary remedies. Until the final resolution of such matters, if any of our estimates and assumptions change or prove to have been incorrect, we may experience losses in excess of the amounts recorded, which could have a material effect on our business, consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
See also “Note 7 — Income Taxes.”
v3.20.2
Debt
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Debt DEBT
As of September 30, 2020, we had $32.2 billion of unsecured senior notes outstanding (the “Notes”), including $10.0 billion issued in June 2020 for general corporate purposes. We also have other long-term debt and borrowings under our credit facility of $1.6 billion and $1.0 billion as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020. Our total long-term debt obligations are as follows (in millions):

Maturities (1)Stated Interest RatesEffective Interest RatesDecember 31, 2019September 30, 2020
2012 Notes issuance of $3.0 billion
20222.50%2.66%1,250 1,250 
2014 Notes issuance of $6.0 billion
2021 - 2044
3.30% - 4.95%
3.43% - 5.11%
5,000 5,000 
2017 Notes issuance of $17.0 billion
2023 - 2057
2.40% - 5.20%
2.56% - 4.33%
17,000 16,000 
2020 Notes issuance of $10.0 billion
2023 - 2060
0.40% - 2.70%
0.56% - 2.77%
— 10,000 
Credit Facility740 413 
Other long-term debt830 625 
Total face value of long-term debt24,820 33,288 
Unamortized discount and issuance costs, net(101)(204)
Less current portion of long-term debt(1,305)(155)
Long-term debt$23,414 $32,929 
___________________
(1) The weighted average remaining lives of the 2012, 2014, 2017, and 2020 Notes were 2.2, 12.1, 16.5, and 19.0 years as of September 30, 2020. The combined weighted average remaining life of the Notes was 16.0 years as of September 30, 2020.
Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears. We may redeem the Notes at any time in whole, or from time to time, in part at specified redemption prices. We are not subject to any financial covenants under the Notes. The estimated fair value of the Notes was approximately $26.2 billion and $37.3 billion as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020, which is based on quoted prices for our debt as of those dates.
In October 2016, we entered into a $500 million secured revolving credit facility with a lender that is secured by certain seller receivables, which we subsequently increased to $740 million and may from time to time increase in the future subject to lender approval (the “Credit Facility”). The Credit Facility is available until October 2022, bears interest at the London interbank offered rate (“LIBOR”) plus 1.40%, and has a commitment fee of 0.50% on the undrawn portion. There were $740 million and $413 million of borrowings outstanding under the Credit Facility as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020, which had a weighted-average interest rate of 3.4% and 3.1%, respectively. As of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020, we have pledged $852 million and $475 million of our cash and seller receivables as collateral for debt related to our Credit Facility. The estimated fair value of the Credit Facility, which is based on Level 2 inputs, approximated its carrying value as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.
Other long-term debt, including the current portion, had a weighted-average interest rate of 4.1% and 2.9% as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020. We used the net proceeds from the issuance of this debt primarily to fund certain business operations. The estimated fair value of other long-term debt, which is based on Level 2 inputs, approximated its carrying value as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.
In April 2018, we established a commercial paper program (the “Commercial Paper Program”) under which we may from time to time issue unsecured commercial paper up to a total of $7.0 billion at any time, with individual maturities that may vary but will not exceed 397 days from the date of issue. In June 2020, we increased the size of the Commercial Paper Program to $10.0 billion. There were no borrowings outstanding under the Commercial Paper Program as of December 31, 2019. There were $725 million of borrowings outstanding under the Commercial Paper Program as of September 30, 2020, which are included in “Accrued expenses and other” on our consolidated balance sheets and have a weighted average effective interest rate, including issuance costs, of 0.13%. We use the net proceeds from the issuance of commercial paper for general corporate purposes.
In April 2018, in connection with our Commercial Paper Program, we amended and restated our unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Credit Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders to increase our borrowing capacity thereunder to $7.0 billion. In June 2020, we further amended and restated the Credit Agreement to extend the term to June 2023, and it may be extended for up to three additional one-year terms if approved by the lenders. The interest rate applicable to outstanding balances under the amended and restated Credit Agreement is LIBOR plus 0.50%, with a commitment fee of 0.04% on the
undrawn portion of the credit facility. There were no borrowings outstanding under the Credit Agreement as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.We also utilize other short-term credit facilities for working capital purposes. These amounts are included in “Accrued expenses and other” on our consolidated balance sheets.
v3.20.2
Stockholders' Equity
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Equity [Abstract]  
Stockholders' Equity STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Stock Repurchase Activity
In February 2016, the Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to $5.0 billion of our common stock, with no fixed expiration. There were no repurchases of common stock during the nine months ended September 30, 2019 or 2020.
Stock Award Activity
Common shares outstanding plus shares underlying outstanding stock awards totaled 512 million and 518 million as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020. These totals include all vested and unvested stock awards outstanding, including those awards we estimate will be forfeited. Stock-based compensation expense is as follows (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 2019202020192020
Cost of sales$39 $75 $106 $193 
Fulfillment301 316 895 993 
Technology and content966 1,267 2,719 3,649 
Marketing298 446 813 1,233 
General and administrative175 184 491 578 
Total stock-based compensation expense$1,779 $2,288 $5,024 $6,646 
The following table summarizes our restricted stock unit activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 (in millions):
Number of UnitsWeighted-Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 201914.3 $1,458 
Units granted7.1 2,281 
Units vested(4.0)1,168 
Units forfeited(1.0)1,571 
Outstanding as of September 30, 202016.4 1,879 
Scheduled vesting for outstanding restricted stock units as of September 30, 2020, is as follows (in millions):
 Three Months Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,  
 20202021202220232024ThereafterTotal
Scheduled vesting—restricted stock units1.8 5.7 5.4 2.4 0.9 0.2 16.4 
As of September 30, 2020, there was 13.9 billion of net unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock-based compensation arrangements. This compensation is recognized on an accelerated basis with approximately half of the compensation expected to be expensed in the next twelve months, and has a remaining weighted-average recognition period of 1.2 years. The estimated forfeiture rate as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020 was 27%. Changes in our estimates and assumptions relating to forfeitures may cause us to realize material changes in stock-based compensation expense in the future.
Changes in Stockholders’ Equity
The following table shows the changes in stockholders’ equity (in millions):
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2019202020192020
Total beginning stockholders’ equity$53,061 $73,728 $43,549 $62,060 
Beginning and ending common stock
Beginning and ending treasury stock(1,837)(1,837)(1,837)(1,837)
Beginning additional paid-in capital30,035 38,017 26,791 33,658 
Stock-based compensation and issuance of employee benefit plan stock1,782 2,290 5,026 6,649 
Ending additional paid-in capital31,817 40,307 31,817 40,307 
Beginning accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)(960)(1,455)(1,035)(986)
Other comprehensive income (loss)(469)426 (394)(43)
Ending accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)(1,429)(1,029)(1,429)(1,029)
Beginning retained earnings25,818 38,998 19,625 31,220 
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles (1)— — — 
Net income2,134 6,331 8,320 14,109 
Ending retained earnings27,952 45,329 27,952 45,329 
Total ending stockholders’ equity$56,508 $82,775 $56,508 $82,775 
___________________
(1)We recorded cumulative effect adjustments related to the new lease standard in Q1 2019 and the new measurement of credit losses standard in Q1 2020.
v3.20.2
Income Taxes
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Income Taxes INCOME TAXES
Our tax provision or benefit from income taxes for interim periods is determined using an estimate of our annual effective tax rate, adjusted for discrete items, if any, that are taken into account in the relevant period. Each quarter we update our estimate of the annual effective tax rate, and if our estimated tax rate changes, we make a cumulative adjustment.
Our quarterly tax provision, and our quarterly estimate of our annual effective tax rate, is subject to significant variation due to several factors, including variability in accurately predicting our pre-tax and taxable income and loss and the mix of jurisdictions to which they relate, intercompany transactions, the applicability of special tax regimes, changes in how we do business, acquisitions, investments, audit-related developments, changes in our stock price, changes in our deferred tax assets and liabilities and their valuation, foreign currency gains (losses), changes in statutes, regulations, case law, and administrative practices, principles, and interpretations related to tax, including changes to the global tax framework, competition, and other laws and accounting rules in various jurisdictions, and relative changes of expenses or losses for which tax benefits are not recognized. Our effective tax rate can be more or less volatile based on the amount of pre-tax income or loss. For example, the impact of discrete items and non-deductible expenses on our effective tax rate is greater when our pre-tax income is lower. In addition, we record valuation allowances against deferred tax assets when there is uncertainty about our ability to generate future income in relevant jurisdictions, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business make estimates of future income more challenging.
For 2020, we estimate that our effective tax rate will be favorably affected by the impact of excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation and the U.S. federal research and development credit and adversely affected by state income taxes.
Our income tax provisions for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2020 were $1.6 billion and $2.3 billion, which included $1.0 billion and $1.5 billion of net discrete tax benefits primarily attributable to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation.
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds was $241 million and $502 million in Q3 2019 and Q3 2020, and $692 million and $1.3 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2020.
As of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020, tax contingencies were approximately $3.9 billion and $3.0 billion. The decrease in tax contingencies in 2020 was primarily a result of developments in our ongoing global tax controversies. Changes in tax laws, regulations, administrative practices, principles, and interpretations may impact our tax contingencies. The timing of the resolution of income tax examinations is highly uncertain, and the amounts ultimately paid, if any, upon resolution of the issues raised by the taxing authorities may differ from the amounts accrued. It is reasonably possible that within the next twelve months we will receive additional assessments by various tax authorities or possibly reach resolution of income tax examinations in one or more jurisdictions. These assessments or settlements could result in changes to our contingencies related to positions on prior years’ tax filings.
We are under examination, or may be subject to examination, by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) for the calendar year 2013 and thereafter. These examinations may lead to ordinary course adjustments or proposed adjustments to our taxes or our net operating losses with respect to years under examination as well as subsequent periods. During Q3 2020, we resolved the audits of tax years 2007 through 2012 with the IRS for amounts that were materially consistent with our accrual.
In October 2014, the European Commission opened a formal investigation to examine whether decisions by the tax authorities in Luxembourg with regard to the corporate income tax paid by certain of our subsidiaries comply with European Union rules on state aid. On October 4, 2017, the European Commission announced its decision that determinations by the tax authorities in Luxembourg did not comply with European Union rules on state aid. Based on that decision the European Commission announced an estimated recovery amount of approximately €250 million, plus interest, for the period May 2006 through June 2014, and ordered Luxembourg tax authorities to calculate the actual amount of additional taxes subject to recovery. Luxembourg computed an initial recovery amount, consistent with the European Commission’s decision, that we deposited into escrow in March 2018, subject to adjustment pending conclusion of all appeals. In December 2017, Luxembourg appealed the European Commission’s decision. In May 2018, we appealed. We believe the European Commission’s decision to be without merit and will continue to defend ourselves vigorously in this matter. We are also subject to taxation in various states and other foreign jurisdictions including China, Germany, India, Japan, Luxembourg, and the United Kingdom. We are under, or may be subject to, audit or examination and additional assessments by the relevant authorities in respect of these particular jurisdictions primarily for 2009 and thereafter.
v3.20.2
Segment Information
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Segment Information SEGMENT INFORMATION
We have organized our operations into three segments: North America, International, and AWS. We allocate to segment results the operating expenses “Fulfillment,” “Technology and content,” “Marketing,” and “General and administrative” based on usage, which is generally reflected in the segment in which the costs are incurred. The majority of technology infrastructure costs are allocated to the AWS segment based on usage. The majority of the remaining non-infrastructure technology costs are incurred in the U.S. and are allocated to our North America segment. There are no internal revenue transactions between our reportable segments. These segments reflect the way our chief operating decision maker evaluates the Company’s business performance and manages its operations.
North America
The North America segment primarily consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from sellers) and subscriptions through North America-focused online and physical stores. This segment includes export sales from these online stores.
International
The International segment primarily consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from sellers) and subscriptions through internationally-focused online stores. This segment includes export sales from these internationally-focused online stores (including export sales from these online stores to customers in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada), but excludes export sales from our North America-focused online stores.
AWS
The AWS segment consists of amounts earned from global sales of compute, storage, database, and other service offerings for start-ups, enterprises, government agencies, and academic institutions.
Information on reportable segments and reconciliation to consolidated net income is as follows (in millions):
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 2019202020192020
North America
Net sales$42,638 $59,373 $117,104 $160,936 
Operating expenses41,356 57,121 111,971 155,232 
Operating income$1,282 $2,252 $5,133 $5,704 
International
Net sales$18,348 $25,171 $50,910 $66,945 
Operating expenses18,734 24,764 51,986 66,590 
Operating income (loss)$(386)$407 $(1,076)$355 
AWS
Net sales$8,995 $11,601 $25,072 $32,628 
Operating expenses6,734 8,066 18,467 22,661 
Operating income$2,261 $3,535 $6,605 $9,967 
Consolidated
Net sales$69,981 $96,145 $193,086 $260,509 
Operating expenses66,824 89,951 182,424 244,483 
Operating income3,157 6,194 10,662 16,026 
Total non-operating income (expense)(525)615 (739)387 
Provision for income taxes(494)(569)(1,588)(2,298)
Equity-method investment activity, net of tax(4)91 (15)(6)
Net income$2,134 $6,331 $8,320 $14,109 
Net sales by groups of similar products and services, which also have similar economic characteristics, is as follows (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 2019202020192020
Net Sales:
Online stores (1)$35,039 $48,350 $95,590 $130,899 
Physical stores (2)4,192 3,788 12,829 12,201 
Third-party seller services (3)13,212 20,436 36,316 53,121 
Subscription services (4)4,957 6,572 13,975 18,146 
AWS8,995 11,601 25,072 32,628 
Other (5)3,586 5,398 9,304 13,514 
Consolidated$69,981 $96,145 $193,086 $260,509 
____________________________
(1)Includes product sales and digital media content where we record revenue gross. We leverage our retail infrastructure to offer a wide selection of consumable and durable goods that includes media products available in both a physical and digital format, such as books, music, videos, games, and software. These product sales include digital products sold on a transactional basis. Digital product subscriptions that provide unlimited viewing or usage rights are included in “Subscription services.”
(2)Includes product sales where our customers physically select items in a store. Sales from customers who order goods online for delivery or pickup at our physical stores are included in “Online stores.”
(3)Includes commissions and any related fulfillment and shipping fees, and other third-party seller services.
(4)Includes annual and monthly fees associated with Amazon Prime memberships, as well as audiobook, digital video, digital music, e-book, and other non-AWS subscription services.
(5)Primarily includes sales of advertising services, as well as sales related to our other service offerings.
v3.20.2
Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures (Policies)
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Unaudited Interim Financial Information
Unaudited Interim Financial Information
We have prepared the accompanying consolidated financial statements pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for interim financial reporting. These consolidated financial statements are unaudited and, in our opinion, include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments and accruals necessary for a fair presentation of our consolidated cash flows, operating results, and balance sheets for the periods presented. Operating results for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for 2020 due to seasonal and other factors. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) have been omitted in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes in Item 8 of Part II, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” of our 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Prior Period Reclassifications
Prior Period Reclassifications
Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. Proceeds from and repayments of short-term debt, and other were reclassified from proceeds from and repayments of long-term debt, and other on our consolidated statements of cash flows.
Principles of Consolidation
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Amazon.com, Inc. and its consolidated entities (collectively, the “Company”), consisting of its wholly-owned subsidiaries and those entities in which we have a variable interest and of which we are the primary beneficiary, including certain entities in India and certain entities that support our seller lending financing activities. Intercompany balances and transactions between consolidated entities are eliminated.
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent liabilities in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Estimates are used for, but not limited to, income taxes, useful lives of equipment, commitments and contingencies, valuation of acquired intangibles and goodwill, stock-based compensation forfeiture rates, vendor funding, inventory valuation, collectability of receivables, and valuation and impairment of investments. Given the global economic climate and additional or unforeseen effects from the COVID-19 pandemic, these estimates have become more challenging, and actual results could differ materially from these estimates.
Earnings per Share
Earnings per Share
Basic earnings per share is calculated using our weighted-average outstanding common shares. Diluted earnings per share is calculated using our weighted-average outstanding common shares including the dilutive effect of stock awards as determined under the treasury stock method. In periods when we have a net loss, stock awards are excluded from our calculation of earnings per share as their inclusion would have an antidilutive effect.
Inventories
Inventories
Inventories, consisting of products available for sale, are primarily accounted for using the first-in, first-out method, and are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value. This valuation requires us to make judgments, based on currently available information, about the likely method of disposition, such as through sales to individual customers, returns to product vendors, or liquidations, and expected recoverable values of each disposition category. The inventory valuation allowance, representing a write-down of inventory, was $1.6 billion and $1.9 billion as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.
Accounts Receivable, Net and Other
Accounts Receivable, Net and Other
Included in “Accounts receivable, net and other” on our consolidated balance sheets are amounts primarily related to customers, vendors, and sellers. As of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020, customer receivables, net, were $12.6 billion and $13.1 billion, vendor receivables, net, were $4.2 billion and $3.3 billion, and seller receivables, net, were $863 million and $446 million. Seller receivables are amounts due from sellers related to our seller lending program, which provides funding to sellers primarily to procure inventory.
We estimate losses on receivables based on expected losses, including our historical experience of actual losses. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $718 million and $968 million as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.
Digital Video and Music Content Digital Video and Music ContentThe total capitalized costs of video, which is primarily released content, and music as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020 were $5.8 billion and $6.3 billion. Total video and music expense was $1.9 billion and $2.8 billion in Q3 2019 and Q3 2020, and $5.5 billion and $8.0 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2020.
Unearned Revenue
Unearned Revenue
Unearned revenue is recorded when payments are received or due in advance of performing our service obligations and is recognized over the service period. Unearned revenue primarily relates to prepayments of AWS services and Amazon Prime memberships. Our total unearned revenue as of December 31, 2019 was $10.2 billion, of which $7.1 billion was recognized as
revenue during the nine months ended September 30, 2020. Included in “Other long-term liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheets was $2.0 billion and $1.9 billion of unearned revenue as of December 31, 2019 and September 30, 2020.
Additionally, we have performance obligations, primarily related to AWS, associated with commitments in customer contracts for future services that have not yet been recognized in our consolidated financial statements. For contracts with original terms that exceed one year, those commitments not yet recognized were $44.8 billion as of September 30, 2020. The weighted average remaining life of our long-term contracts is 3.4 years. However, the amount and timing of revenue recognition is largely driven by customer usage, which can extend beyond the original contractual term.
v3.20.2
Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures (Tables)
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
The following table shows supplemental cash flow information (in millions):
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
Twelve Months Ended
September 30,
201920202019202020192020
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid for interest on debt$287 $285 $720 $715 $842 $869 
Cash paid for operating leases872 1,159 2,420 3,275 2,420 4,215 
Cash paid for interest on finance leases167 155 481 484 585 650 
Cash paid for interest on financing obligations14 28 20 71 72 90 
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds241 502 692 1,293 863 1,481 
Assets acquired under operating leases2,299 6,115 5,393 11,870 5,393 14,346 
Property and equipment acquired under finance leases3,606 3,571 9,541 8,892 13,222 13,075 
Property and equipment acquired under build-to-suit arrangements390 366 1,109 1,228 2,252 1,480 
Calculation of Diluted Shares
The following table shows the calculation of diluted shares (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 2019202020192020
Shares used in computation of basic earnings per share495 501 493 500 
Total dilutive effect of outstanding stock awards11 10 
Shares used in computation of diluted earnings per share504 512 503 509 
v3.20.2
Financial Instruments (Tables)
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Fair Value by Major Security Type
The following table summarizes, by major security type, our cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and marketable securities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and are categorized using the fair value hierarchy (in millions):
 December 31, 2019September 30, 2020
  
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
Cost or
Amortized
Cost
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
Cash$9,776 $9,553 $— — $9,553 
Level 1 securities:
Money market funds18,850 17,701 — — 17,701 
Equity securities (1)202 452 
Level 2 securities:
Foreign government and agency securities4,794 10,270 — 10,271 
U.S. government and agency securities7,080 7,656 34 (3)7,687 
Corporate debt securities11,881 18,849 276 (5)19,120 
Asset-backed securities2,360 3,245 31 (5)3,271 
Other fixed income securities394 500 — 508 
Equity securities (1)114 
$55,342 $67,774 $350 $(13)$68,677 
Less: Restricted cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities (2)(321)(275)
Total cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities$55,021 $68,402 
___________________
(1)The related unrealized gain (loss) recorded in “Other income (expense), net” was $(55) million and $150 million in Q3 2019 and Q3 2020, and $27 million and $351 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2020.
(2)We are required to pledge or otherwise restrict a portion of our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities as collateral for real estate leases, amounts due to third-party sellers in certain jurisdictions, debt, and standby and trade letters of credit. We classify cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities with use restrictions of less than twelve months as “Accounts receivable, net and other” and of twelve months or longer as non-current “Other assets” on our consolidated balance sheets. See “Note 4 — Commitments and Contingencies.”
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date
The following table summarizes the remaining contractual maturities of our cash equivalents and marketable fixed income securities as of September 30, 2020 (in millions):
Amortized
Cost
Estimated
Fair Value
Due within one year$38,791 $38,803 
Due after one year through five years16,106 16,400 
Due after five years through ten years753 758 
Due after ten years2,571 2,597 
Total$58,221 $58,558 
Actual maturities may differ from the contractual maturities because borrowers may have certain prepayment conditions.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow Reconciliation - Cash and Cash Equivalents
The following table provides a reconciliation of the amount of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the consolidated balance sheets to the total of the same such amounts shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows (in millions):
December 31, 2019September 30, 2020
Cash and cash equivalents$36,092 $29,930 
Restricted cash included in accounts receivable, net and other276 239 
Restricted cash included in other assets42 33 
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows$36,410 $30,202 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow Reconciliation - Restricted Cash
The following table provides a reconciliation of the amount of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the consolidated balance sheets to the total of the same such amounts shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows (in millions):
December 31, 2019September 30, 2020
Cash and cash equivalents$36,092 $29,930 
Restricted cash included in accounts receivable, net and other276 239 
Restricted cash included in other assets42 33 
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows$36,410 $30,202 
v3.20.2
Leases (Tables)
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Leases [Abstract]  
Lease Costs
Lease cost recognized in our consolidated statements of operations is summarized as follows (in millions):
Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2019202020192020
Operating lease cost$934 $1,334 $2,644 $3,551 
Finance lease cost:
Amortization of lease assets2,609 2,200 7,319 6,123 
Interest on lease liabilities164 154 479 474 
Finance lease cost2,773 2,354 7,798 6,597 
Variable lease cost244 308 775 866 
Total lease cost$3,951 $3,996 $11,217 $11,014 
Other Information about Lease Amounts Recognized
Other information about lease amounts recognized in our consolidated financial statements is summarized as follows:
 December 31, 2019September 30, 2020
Weighted-average remaining lease term – operating leases11.5 years11.1 years
Weighted-average remaining lease term – finance leases5.5 years6.1 years
Weighted-average discount rate – operating leases3.1 %2.6 %
Weighted-average discount rate – finance leases2.7 %2.3 %
Lease Liabilities
Our lease liabilities were as follows (in millions):
December 31, 2019
 Operating LeasesFinance LeasesTotal
Gross lease liabilities$31,963 $28,875 $60,838 
Less: imputed interest(6,128)(1,896)(8,024)
Present value of lease liabilities25,835 26,979 52,814 
Less: current portion of lease liabilities(3,139)(9,884)(13,023)
Total long-term lease liabilities$22,696 $17,095 $39,791 
September 30, 2020
 Operating LeasesFinance LeasesTotal
Gross lease liabilities$42,014 $29,801 $71,815 
Less: imputed interest(6,759)(2,051)(8,810)
Present value of lease liabilities35,255 27,750 63,005 
Less: current portion of lease liabilities(4,156)(10,260)(14,416)
Total long-term lease liabilities$31,099 $17,490 $48,589 
v3.20.2
Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Principal Contractual Commitments, Excluding Open Orders for Purchases
The following summarizes our principal contractual commitments, excluding open orders for purchases that support normal operations and are generally cancellable, as of September 30, 2020 (in millions): 
 Three Months Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,  
 20202021202220232024ThereafterTotal
Long-term debt principal and interest$282 $2,188 $2,647 $3,271 $4,272 $38,738 $51,398 
Operating lease liabilities1,139 5,032 4,584 4,204 3,865 23,190 42,014 
Finance lease liabilities, including interest2,363 10,145 6,507 2,753 1,291 6,742 29,801 
Financing obligations, including interest48 211 214 217 220 3,694 4,604 
Unconditional purchase obligations (1)416 4,027 3,562 3,194 3,049 2,296 16,544 
Other commitments (2) (3)1,260 3,963 3,290 2,268 2,238 23,612 36,631 
Total commitments$5,508 $25,566 $20,804 $15,907 $14,935 $98,272 $180,992 
___________________
(1)Includes unconditional purchase obligations related to certain products offered in our Whole Foods Market stores and long-term agreements to acquire and license digital media content that are not reflected on the consolidated balance sheets. For those digital media content agreements with variable terms, we do not estimate the total obligation beyond any minimum quantities and/or pricing as of the reporting date. Purchase obligations associated with renewal provisions solely at the option of the content provider are included to the extent such commitments are fixed or a minimum amount is specified.
(2)Includes the estimated timing and amounts of payments for rent and tenant improvements associated with build-to-suit lease arrangements and lease arrangements prior to the lease commencement date, liabilities associated with digital media content agreements with initial terms greater than one year, and asset retirement obligations.
(3)Excludes approximately $3.0 billion of accrued tax contingencies for which we cannot make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amount and period of payment, if any.
v3.20.2
Debt (Tables)
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Long-Term Debt Obligations Our total long-term debt obligations are as follows (in millions):
Maturities (1)Stated Interest RatesEffective Interest RatesDecember 31, 2019September 30, 2020
2012 Notes issuance of $3.0 billion
20222.50%2.66%1,250 1,250 
2014 Notes issuance of $6.0 billion
2021 - 2044
3.30% - 4.95%
3.43% - 5.11%
5,000 5,000 
2017 Notes issuance of $17.0 billion
2023 - 2057
2.40% - 5.20%
2.56% - 4.33%
17,000 16,000 
2020 Notes issuance of $10.0 billion
2023 - 2060
0.40% - 2.70%
0.56% - 2.77%
— 10,000 
Credit Facility740 413 
Other long-term debt830 625 
Total face value of long-term debt24,820 33,288 
Unamortized discount and issuance costs, net(101)(204)
Less current portion of long-term debt(1,305)(155)
Long-term debt$23,414 $32,929 
___________________
(1) The weighted average remaining lives of the 2012, 2014, 2017, and 2020 Notes were 2.2, 12.1, 16.5, and 19.0 years as of September 30, 2020. The combined weighted average remaining life of the Notes was 16.0 years as of September 30, 2020.
v3.20.2
Stockholders' Equity (Tables)
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Equity [Abstract]  
Stock-Based Compensation Expense Stock-based compensation expense is as follows (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 2019202020192020
Cost of sales$39 $75 $106 $193 
Fulfillment301 316 895 993 
Technology and content966 1,267 2,719 3,649 
Marketing298 446 813 1,233 
General and administrative175 184 491 578 
Total stock-based compensation expense$1,779 $2,288 $5,024 $6,646 
Restricted Stock Unit Activity
The following table summarizes our restricted stock unit activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 (in millions):
Number of UnitsWeighted-Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 201914.3 $1,458 
Units granted7.1 2,281 
Units vested(4.0)1,168 
Units forfeited(1.0)1,571 
Outstanding as of September 30, 202016.4 1,879 
Scheduled Vesting for Outstanding Restricted Stock Units
Scheduled vesting for outstanding restricted stock units as of September 30, 2020, is as follows (in millions):
 Three Months Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,  
 20202021202220232024ThereafterTotal
Scheduled vesting—restricted stock units1.8 5.7 5.4 2.4 0.9 0.2 16.4 
Changes in Stockholders' Equity
The following table shows the changes in stockholders’ equity (in millions):
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2019202020192020
Total beginning stockholders’ equity$53,061 $73,728 $43,549 $62,060 
Beginning and ending common stock
Beginning and ending treasury stock(1,837)(1,837)(1,837)(1,837)
Beginning additional paid-in capital30,035 38,017 26,791 33,658 
Stock-based compensation and issuance of employee benefit plan stock1,782 2,290 5,026 6,649 
Ending additional paid-in capital31,817 40,307 31,817 40,307 
Beginning accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)(960)(1,455)(1,035)(986)
Other comprehensive income (loss)(469)426 (394)(43)
Ending accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)(1,429)(1,029)(1,429)(1,029)
Beginning retained earnings25,818 38,998 19,625 31,220 
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles (1)— — — 
Net income2,134 6,331 8,320 14,109 
Ending retained earnings27,952 45,329 27,952 45,329 
Total ending stockholders’ equity$56,508 $82,775 $56,508 $82,775 
___________________
(1)We recorded cumulative effect adjustments related to the new lease standard in Q1 2019 and the new measurement of credit losses standard in Q1 2020.
v3.20.2
Segment Information (Tables)
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Information on Reportable Segments and Reconciliation to Consolidated Net Income
Information on reportable segments and reconciliation to consolidated net income is as follows (in millions):
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 2019202020192020
North America
Net sales$42,638 $59,373 $117,104 $160,936 
Operating expenses41,356 57,121 111,971 155,232 
Operating income$1,282 $2,252 $5,133 $5,704 
International
Net sales$18,348 $25,171 $50,910 $66,945 
Operating expenses18,734 24,764 51,986 66,590 
Operating income (loss)$(386)$407 $(1,076)$355 
AWS
Net sales$8,995 $11,601 $25,072 $32,628 
Operating expenses6,734 8,066 18,467 22,661 
Operating income$2,261 $3,535 $6,605 $9,967 
Consolidated
Net sales$69,981 $96,145 $193,086 $260,509 
Operating expenses66,824 89,951 182,424 244,483 
Operating income3,157 6,194 10,662 16,026 
Total non-operating income (expense)(525)615 (739)387 
Provision for income taxes(494)(569)(1,588)(2,298)
Equity-method investment activity, net of tax(4)91 (15)(6)
Net income$2,134 $6,331 $8,320 $14,109 
Disaggregation of Revenue
Net sales by groups of similar products and services, which also have similar economic characteristics, is as follows (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended
September 30,
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 2019202020192020
Net Sales:
Online stores (1)$35,039 $48,350 $95,590 $130,899 
Physical stores (2)4,192 3,788 12,829 12,201 
Third-party seller services (3)13,212 20,436 36,316 53,121 
Subscription services (4)4,957 6,572 13,975 18,146 
AWS8,995 11,601 25,072 32,628 
Other (5)3,586 5,398 9,304 13,514 
Consolidated$69,981 $96,145 $193,086 $260,509 
____________________________
(1)Includes product sales and digital media content where we record revenue gross. We leverage our retail infrastructure to offer a wide selection of consumable and durable goods that includes media products available in both a physical and digital format, such as books, music, videos, games, and software. These product sales include digital products sold on a transactional basis. Digital product subscriptions that provide unlimited viewing or usage rights are included in “Subscription services.”
(2)Includes product sales where our customers physically select items in a store. Sales from customers who order goods online for delivery or pickup at our physical stores are included in “Online stores.”
(3)Includes commissions and any related fulfillment and shipping fees, and other third-party seller services.
(4)Includes annual and monthly fees associated with Amazon Prime memberships, as well as audiobook, digital video, digital music, e-book, and other non-AWS subscription services.
(5)Primarily includes sales of advertising services, as well as sales related to our other service offerings.
v3.20.2
Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures - Use of Estimates (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Sep. 30, 2019
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]              
Decrease in depreciation and amortization $ (6,523) $ (5,563) $ (17,633) $ (15,619) $ (23,803)   $ (19,881)
Increase in net income $ 6,331 $ 2,134 $ 14,109 $ 8,320 $ 17,377   $ 11,347
Increase in basic earnings per share $ 12.63 $ 4.31 $ 28.24 $ 16.87      
Increase in diluted earnings per share $ 12.37 $ 4.23 $ 27.72 $ 16.53      
Technology equipment              
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]              
Useful life of equipment     4 years     3 years  
Change in equipment useful life              
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]              
Decrease in depreciation and amortization $ 634   $ 2,100        
Increase in net income $ 479   $ 1,600        
Increase in basic earnings per share $ 0.95   $ 3.23        
Increase in diluted earnings per share $ 0.93   $ 3.18        
v3.20.2
Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures - Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]            
Cash paid for interest on debt $ 285 $ 287 $ 715 $ 720 $ 869 $ 842
Cash paid for operating leases 1,159 872 3,275 2,420 4,215 2,420
Cash paid for interest on finance leases 155 167 484 481 650 585
Cash paid for interest on financing obligations 28 14 71 20 90 72
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds 502 241 1,293 692 1,481 863
Assets acquired under operating leases 6,115 2,299 11,870 5,393 14,346 5,393
Property and equipment acquired under finance leases 3,571 3,606 8,892 9,541 13,075 13,222
Property and equipment acquired under build-to-suit arrangements $ 366 $ 390 $ 1,228 $ 1,109 $ 1,480 $ 2,252
v3.20.2
Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures - Calculation of Diluted Shares (Details) - shares
shares in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]        
Shares used in computation of basic earnings per share (in shares) 501 495 500 493
Total dilutive effect of outstanding stock awards (in shares) 11 9 9 10
Shares used in computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares) 512 504 509 503
v3.20.2
Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures - Inventories (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Inventory valuation allowance $ 1.9 $ 1.6
v3.20.2
Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures - Accounts Receivable, Net and Other (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Accounts receivable, net and other $ 20,832 $ 20,816
Allowance for doubtful accounts 968 718
Customer receivables, net    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Accounts receivable, net and other 13,100 12,600
Vendor receivables, net    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Accounts receivable, net and other 3,300 4,200
Seller receivables, net    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Accounts receivable, net and other $ 446 $ 863
v3.20.2
Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures - Video and Music Content (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Dec. 31, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]          
Digital video and music content, capitalized costs $ 6.3   $ 6.3   $ 5.8
Digital video and music content, expense $ 2.8 $ 1.9 $ 8.0 $ 5.5  
v3.20.2
Accounting Policies and Supplemental Disclosures - Unearned Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Unearned revenue   $ 10.2
Unearned revenue, revenue recognized $ 7.1  
Unearned revenue, long-term 1.9 $ 2.0
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2020-10-01    
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Remaining performance obligation, contracts exceeding one year $ 44.8  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]    
Remaining performance obligation, weighted average remaining life 3 years 4 months 24 days  
v3.20.2
Financial Instruments - Fair Values on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Dec. 31, 2019
Equity Securities, FV-NI, Gain (Loss)          
Equity securities, unrealized gain (loss) $ 150 $ (55) $ 351 $ 27  
Recurring          
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]          
Cash 9,553   9,553   $ 9,776
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale          
Gross unrealized gains 350   350    
Gross unrealized losses (13)   (13)    
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities          
Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities, amortized cost 67,774   67,774    
Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities 68,677   68,677   55,342
Less: Restricted cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities (275)   (275)   (321)
Total cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities 68,402   68,402   55,021
Recurring | Level 1 securities          
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities          
Equity securities 452   452   202
Recurring | Level 1 securities | Money market funds          
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]          
Money market funds 17,701   17,701   18,850
Recurring | Level 2 securities          
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities          
Equity securities 114   114   5
Recurring | Level 2 securities | Foreign government and agency securities          
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale          
Fixed income securities, amortized cost 10,270   10,270    
Gross unrealized gains 1   1    
Gross unrealized losses 0   0    
Fixed income securities 10,271   10,271   4,794
Recurring | Level 2 securities | U.S. government and agency securities          
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale          
Fixed income securities, amortized cost 7,656   7,656    
Gross unrealized gains 34   34    
Gross unrealized losses (3)   (3)    
Fixed income securities 7,687   7,687   7,080
Recurring | Level 2 securities | Corporate debt securities          
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale          
Fixed income securities, amortized cost 18,849   18,849    
Gross unrealized gains 276   276    
Gross unrealized losses (5)   (5)    
Fixed income securities 19,120   19,120   11,881
Recurring | Level 2 securities | Asset-backed securities          
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale          
Fixed income securities, amortized cost 3,245   3,245    
Gross unrealized gains 31   31    
Gross unrealized losses (5)   (5)    
Fixed income securities 3,271   3,271   2,360
Recurring | Level 2 securities | Other fixed income securities          
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale          
Fixed income securities, amortized cost 500   500    
Gross unrealized gains 8   8    
Gross unrealized losses 0   0    
Fixed income securities 508   508   $ 394
Money market funds | Recurring | Level 1 securities | Money market funds          
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]          
Money market funds $ 17,701   $ 17,701    
v3.20.2
Financial Instruments - Contractual Maturities (Details)
$ in Millions
Sep. 30, 2020
USD ($)
Amortized Cost  
Due within one year $ 38,791
Due after one year through five years 16,106
Due after five years through ten years 753
Due after ten years 2,571
Amortized cost 58,221
Estimated Fair Value  
Due within one year 38,803
Due after one year through five years 16,400
Due after five years through ten years 758
Due after ten years 2,597
Estimated fair value $ 58,558
v3.20.2
Financial Instruments - Equity Warrants and Non-Marketable Equity Investments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Derivative [Line Items]    
Equity investments without readily determinable fair values $ 2,600 $ 1,500
Warrant | Level 2 assets    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Fair value of warrant assets $ 1,400 $ 669
v3.20.2
Financial Instruments - Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Sep. 30, 2020
Jun. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Sep. 30, 2019
Jun. 30, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Sep. 30, 2018
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]              
Cash and cash equivalents $ 29,930   $ 36,092        
Restricted cash included in accounts receivable, net and other 239   276        
Restricted cash included in other assets 33   42        
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows $ 30,202 $ 37,842 $ 36,410 $ 23,554 $ 22,965 $ 32,173 $ 21,032
v3.20.2
Leases - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]    
Gross assets acquired under finance leases $ 64.9 $ 57.4
Accumulated amortization associated with finance leases $ 34.2 $ 30.0
v3.20.2
Leases - Lease Cost (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Leases [Abstract]        
Operating lease cost $ 1,334 $ 934 $ 3,551 $ 2,644
Finance lease cost: amortization of lease assets 2,200 2,609 6,123 7,319
Finance lease cost: interest on lease liabilities 154 164 474 479
Finance lease cost 2,354 2,773 6,597 7,798
Variable lease cost 308 244 866 775
Total lease cost $ 3,996 $ 3,951 $ 11,014 $ 11,217
v3.20.2
Leases - Other Operating and Finance Lease Information (Details)
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]    
Weighted-average remaining lease term – operating leases 11 years 1 month 6 days 11 years 6 months
Weighted-average remaining lease term – finance leases 6 years 1 month 6 days 5 years 6 months
Weighted-average discount rate – operating leases 2.60% 3.10%
Weighted-average discount rate – finance leases 2.30% 2.70%
v3.20.2
Leases - Operating and Finance Lease Liability Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]    
Gross lease liabilities - operating leases $ 42,014 $ 31,963
Gross lease liabilities - finance leases 29,801 28,875
Gross lease liabilities 71,815 60,838
Imputed interest - operating leases (6,759) (6,128)
Imputed interest - finance leases (2,051) (1,896)
Imputed interest (8,810) (8,024)
Present value of operating leases 35,255 25,835
Present value of finance leases 27,750 26,979
Present value of lease liabilities 63,005 52,814
Current portion of operating lease liabilities (4,156) (3,139)
Current portion of finance lease liabilities (10,260) (9,884)
Current portion of lease liabilities (14,416) (13,023)
Total long-term operating lease liabilities 31,099 22,696
Total long-term finance lease liabilities 17,490 17,095
Total long-term lease liabilities $ 48,589 $ 39,791
v3.20.2
Commitments and Contingencies - Principal Contractual Commitments Excluding Open Orders (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Long-term debt principal and interest    
2020 $ 282  
2021 2,188  
2022 2,647  
2023 3,271  
2024 4,272  
Thereafter 38,738  
Total 51,398  
Operating lease liabilities    
2020 1,139  
2021 5,032  
2022 4,584  
2023 4,204  
2024 3,865  
Thereafter 23,190  
Gross lease liabilities - operating leases 42,014 $ 31,963
Finance lease liabilities, including interest    
2020 2,363  
2021 10,145  
2022 6,507  
2023 2,753  
2024 1,291  
Thereafter 6,742  
Gross lease liabilities - finance leases 29,801 28,875
Financing obligations, including interest    
2020 48  
2021 211  
2022 214  
2023 217  
2024 220  
Thereafter 3,694  
Total 4,604  
Unconditional purchase obligations    
2020 416  
2021 4,027  
2022 3,562  
2023 3,194  
2024 3,049  
Thereafter 2,296  
Total 16,544  
Other commitments    
2020 1,260  
2021 3,963  
2022 3,290  
2023 2,268  
2024 2,238  
Thereafter 23,612  
Total 36,631  
Total commitments    
2020 5,508  
2021 25,566  
2022 20,804  
2023 15,907  
2024 14,935  
Thereafter 98,272  
Total 180,992  
Accrued tax contingencies $ 3,000 $ 3,900
v3.20.2
Commitments and Contingencies - Pledged Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]    
Pledged assets $ 921 $ 994
v3.20.2
Debt - Additional Information (Details)
1 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Apr. 30, 2018
USD ($)
extension
Sep. 30, 2020
USD ($)
Jun. 30, 2020
USD ($)
Jun. 01, 2020
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Oct. 31, 2016
USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Total face value of long-term debt   $ 33,288,000,000     $ 24,820,000,000  
Commercial Paper            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Commercial paper, maximum borrowing capacity $ 7,000,000,000.0   $ 10,000,000,000.0      
Commercial paper, term 397 days          
Commercial paper   $ 725,000,000     0  
Commercial paper, weighted average effective interest rate   0.13%        
Senior Notes            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Total face value of long-term debt   $ 32,200,000,000   $ 10,000,000,000.0    
Estimated fair value of notes   37,300,000,000     26,200,000,000  
Other long-term debt and credit facility            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Total face value of long-term debt   1,000,000,000.0     1,600,000,000  
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Total face value of long-term debt   413,000,000     740,000,000  
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility | October 2016 Revolving Credit Facility            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Revolving credit facility maximum borrowing capacity   $ 740,000,000       $ 500,000,000
Commitment fee percentage   0.50%        
Borrowings outstanding   $ 413,000,000     $ 740,000,000  
Weighted average interest rate   3.10%     3.40%  
Collateral amount   $ 475,000,000     $ 852,000,000  
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility | October 2016 Revolving Credit Facility | LIBOR            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Basis spread on variable rate (as a percent)   1.40%        
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility | April 2018 Revolving Credit Facility            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Revolving credit facility maximum borrowing capacity $ 7,000,000,000.0          
Commitment fee percentage 0.04%          
Borrowings outstanding   $ 0     0  
Number of term extensions | extension 3          
Additional term 1 year          
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility | April 2018 Revolving Credit Facility | LIBOR            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Basis spread on variable rate (as a percent) 0.50%          
Other long-term debt            
Debt Instrument [Line Items]            
Total face value of long-term debt   $ 625,000,000     $ 830,000,000  
Weighted average interest rate   2.90%     4.10%  
v3.20.2
Debt - Long-Term Debt Obligations (Details) - USD ($)
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Jun. 01, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Total face value of long-term debt $ 33,288,000,000   $ 24,820,000,000
Less current portion of long-term debt (155,000,000)   (1,305,000,000)
Long-term debt 32,929,000,000   23,414,000,000
Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Total face value of long-term debt 32,200,000,000 $ 10,000,000,000.0  
Unamortized discount and issuance costs, net $ (204,000,000)   (101,000,000)
Weighted average remaining lives term 16 years    
Senior Notes | 2012 Notes issuance of $3.0 billion      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Issuance amount $ 3,000,000,000.0    
Stated Interest Rates 2.50%    
Effective Interest Rates 2.66%    
Total face value of long-term debt $ 1,250,000,000   1,250,000,000
Weighted average remaining lives term 2 years 2 months 12 days    
Senior Notes | 2014 Notes issuance of $6.0 billion      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Issuance amount $ 6,000,000,000.0    
Total face value of long-term debt $ 5,000,000,000   5,000,000,000
Weighted average remaining lives term 12 years 1 month 6 days    
Senior Notes | 2014 Notes issuance of $6.0 billion | Minimum      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Stated Interest Rates 3.30%    
Effective Interest Rates 3.43%    
Senior Notes | 2014 Notes issuance of $6.0 billion | Maximum      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Stated Interest Rates 4.95%    
Effective Interest Rates 5.11%    
Senior Notes | 2017 Notes issuance of $17.0 billion      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Issuance amount $ 17,000,000,000.0    
Total face value of long-term debt $ 16,000,000,000   17,000,000,000
Weighted average remaining lives term 16 years 6 months    
Senior Notes | 2017 Notes issuance of $17.0 billion | Minimum      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Stated Interest Rates 2.40%    
Effective Interest Rates 2.56%    
Senior Notes | 2017 Notes issuance of $17.0 billion | Maximum      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Stated Interest Rates 5.20%    
Effective Interest Rates 4.33%    
Senior Notes | 2020 Notes issuance of $10.0 billion      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Issuance amount $ 10,000,000,000.0    
Total face value of long-term debt $ 10,000,000,000   0
Weighted average remaining lives term 19 years    
Senior Notes | 2020 Notes issuance of $10.0 billion | Minimum      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Stated Interest Rates 0.40%    
Effective Interest Rates 0.56%    
Senior Notes | 2020 Notes issuance of $10.0 billion | Maximum      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Stated Interest Rates 2.70%    
Effective Interest Rates 2.77%    
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Total face value of long-term debt $ 413,000,000   740,000,000
Other long-term debt      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Total face value of long-term debt $ 625,000,000   $ 830,000,000
v3.20.2
Stockholders' Equity - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
shares in Millions
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Dec. 31, 2019
Feb. 29, 2016
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Common shares outstanding plus underlying outstanding stock awards (in shares) 518   512  
Net unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock-based compensation arrangements $ 13,900,000,000      
Compensation cost expected to be expensed in next twelve months, percentage 50.00%      
Net unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock-based compensation arrangements, weighted average recognition period (in years) 1 year 2 months 12 days      
Estimated forfeiture rate 27.00%   27.00%  
February 2016 Program        
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Stock repurchase, authorized amount       $ 5,000,000,000.0
Stock repurchases $ 0 $ 0    
v3.20.2
Stockholders' Equity - Stock-based Compensation Expense (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]        
Total stock-based compensation expense $ 2,288 $ 1,779 $ 6,646 $ 5,024
Cost of sales        
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]        
Total stock-based compensation expense 75 39 193 106
Fulfillment        
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]        
Total stock-based compensation expense 316 301 993 895
Technology and content        
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]        
Total stock-based compensation expense 1,267 966 3,649 2,719
Marketing        
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]        
Total stock-based compensation expense 446 298 1,233 813
General and administrative        
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]        
Total stock-based compensation expense $ 184 $ 175 $ 578 $ 491
v3.20.2
Stockholders' Equity - Restricted Stock Unit Activity (Details) - Restricted Stock Units
shares in Millions
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
$ / shares
shares
Number of Units  
Beginning balance (in shares) | shares 14.3
Units granted (in shares) | shares 7.1
Units vested (in shares) | shares (4.0)
Units forfeited (in shares) | shares (1.0)
Ending balance (in shares) | shares 16.4
Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value  
Beginning balance (in usd per share) | $ / shares $ 1,458
Units granted (in usd per share) | $ / shares 2,281
Units vested (in usd per share) | $ / shares 1,168
Units forfeited (in usd per share) | $ / shares 1,571
Ending balance (in usd per share) | $ / shares $ 1,879
v3.20.2
Stockholders' Equity - Scheduled Vesting for Outstanding Restricted Stock Units (Details) - Restricted Stock Units - shares
shares in Millions
Sep. 30, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]    
Three Months Ended December 31, 2020 (in shares) 1.8  
Year Ended December 31, 2021 (in shares) 5.7  
Year Ended December 31, 2022 (in shares) 5.4  
Year Ended December 31, 2023 (in shares) 2.4  
Year Ended December 31, 2024 (in shares) 0.9  
Thereafter (in shares) 0.2  
Total (in shares) 16.4 14.3
v3.20.2
Stockholders' Equity - Changes in Stockholders Equity (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Changes in Stockholders' Equity            
Beginning balance $ 73,728 $ 53,061 $ 62,060 $ 43,549 $ 56,508  
Other comprehensive income (loss) 426 (469) (43) (394)    
Net Income 6,331 2,134 14,109 8,320 17,377 $ 11,347
Ending balance 82,775 56,508 82,775 56,508 82,775 56,508
Common stock            
Changes in Stockholders' Equity            
Beginning balance 5 5 5 5 5  
Ending balance 5 5 5 5 5 5
Treasury stock            
Changes in Stockholders' Equity            
Beginning balance (1,837) (1,837) (1,837) (1,837) (1,837)  
Ending balance (1,837) (1,837) (1,837) (1,837) (1,837) (1,837)
Additional paid-in capital            
Changes in Stockholders' Equity            
Beginning balance 38,017 30,035 33,658 26,791 31,817  
Stock-based compensation and issuance of employee benefit plan stock 2,290 1,782 6,649 5,026    
Ending balance 40,307 31,817 40,307 31,817 40,307 31,817
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)            
Changes in Stockholders' Equity            
Beginning balance (1,455) (960) (986) (1,035) (1,429)  
Other comprehensive income (loss) 426 (469) (43) (394)    
Ending balance (1,029) (1,429) (1,029) (1,429) (1,029) (1,429)
Retained earnings            
Changes in Stockholders' Equity            
Beginning balance 38,998 25,818 31,220 19,625 27,952  
Net Income 6,331 2,134 14,109 8,320    
Ending balance $ 45,329 $ 27,952 $ 45,329 27,952 $ 45,329 $ 27,952
Retained earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment            
Changes in Stockholders' Equity            
Beginning balance       $ 7    
v3.20.2
Income Taxes (Details)
€ in Millions, $ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Oct. 04, 2017
EUR (€)
Sep. 30, 2020
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2019
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2020
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2019
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2020
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2019
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]                
Provision for income taxes   $ 569 $ 494 $ 2,298 $ 1,588      
Discrete tax benefits       1,500 1,000      
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds   502 $ 241 1,293 $ 692 $ 1,481 $ 863  
Tax contingencies   $ 3,000   $ 3,000   $ 3,000   $ 3,900
Luxembourg Tax Administration [Member] | Foreign Tax Authority [Member]                
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]                
Tax examination, estimate of additional tax expense | € € 250              
v3.20.2
Segment Information - Reportable Segments and Reconciliation to Consolidated Net Income (Details)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2019
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2020
USD ($)
segment
Sep. 30, 2019
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2020
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2019
USD ($)
Segment Reporting [Abstract]            
Number of operating segments | segment     3      
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]            
Net sales $ 96,145 $ 69,981 $ 260,509 $ 193,086    
Operating expenses 89,951 66,824 244,483 182,424    
Operating income (loss) 6,194 3,157 16,026 10,662    
Total non-operating income (expense) 615 (525) 387 (739)    
Provision for income taxes (569) (494) (2,298) (1,588)    
Equity-method investment activity, net of tax 91 (4) (6) (15)    
Net income 6,331 2,134 14,109 8,320 $ 17,377 $ 11,347
North America            
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]            
Net sales 59,373 42,638 160,936 117,104    
Operating expenses 57,121 41,356 155,232 111,971    
Operating income (loss) 2,252 1,282 5,704 5,133    
International            
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]            
Net sales 25,171 18,348 66,945 50,910    
Operating expenses 24,764 18,734 66,590 51,986    
Operating income (loss) 407 (386) 355 (1,076)    
AWS            
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]            
Net sales 11,601 8,995 32,628 25,072    
Operating expenses 8,066 6,734 22,661 18,467    
Operating income (loss) $ 3,535 $ 2,261 $ 9,967 $ 6,605    
v3.20.2
Segment Information - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Sep. 30, 2020
Sep. 30, 2019
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]        
Total net sales $ 96,145 $ 69,981 $ 260,509 $ 193,086
Online stores        
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]        
Total net sales 48,350 35,039 130,899 95,590
Physical stores        
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]        
Total net sales 3,788 4,192 12,201 12,829
Third-party seller services        
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]        
Total net sales 20,436 13,212 53,121 36,316
Subscription services        
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]        
Total net sales 6,572 4,957 18,146 13,975
AWS        
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]        
Total net sales 11,601 8,995 32,628 25,072
Other        
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]        
Total net sales $ 5,398 $ 3,586 $ 13,514 $ 9,304