EXHIBIT 23(a)




INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No.
33-14833 on Form S-8 and Registration Statement No. 333-41278 on Form S-3 of our
report dated January 23, 2003 appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of
Golden West Financial Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2002.



/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Oakland, California
March 25, 2003