HANDICAP
The World Handicap System (WHS) unifies the six different handicap systems being used around the world into a single system that enables golfers of different ability to play and compete on a fair and equitable basis, in any format, on any course, anywhere around the world.
Having a handicap index allows golfers to:
- Participate in more events (those that require a handicap index).
- Have a measurable means of tracking improvement.
- Allow score adjustments to even the playing field when playing with golfers of different skill levels.
GHIN (Golf Handicap and Information Network)
The LPGA Amateurs Seattle Chapter is a Washington State Golf Member golf club, and we offer GHIN handicap through WaGolf for an annual fee of $43. GHIN is effective 1/1 through 12/31 of the current year, if you sign up for GHIN in May, it still expires 12/31 of that same calendar year, and needs to be renewed the following year to stay current.
In addition to providing a handicap, this membership option also includes access to WaGolf Championships, Casual Golf Days, golf deals and events put on by the Pacific Northwest Golf Association (PNGA). "LPGA Amateur Seattle" will be listed as your "home club." New GHIN applications and renewals typically take 7-10 days.
To apply for a GHIN, you may register here and pay with a credit card online.
Players establishing a handicap will now have their handicap index calculated after they have posted a minimum of three 18-hole scores (including 9-hole scores that have been combined).
GolfNet (GN22) update
Due to policy changes at the USGA that took effect on 1/1/2021, the LPGA Amateurs Handicap service will be discontinued after December 31, 2022 and all active accounts will be inactivated on January 1, 2023.
Under the new rules, LPGA Amateurs is no longer able to offer a Handicap service. GolfNet users who wish to maintain a Handicap will need to transfer their account to a club licensed by the USGA Allied Golf Association (AGA) in their state or region (for example the Washington State Golf Association).
What action do you need to take now? It depends...
Have you already moved your Handicap to GHIN? No action required.
If you haven't been using the GolfNet service and do not wish to establish or maintain a handicap in 2023? No action required.
If you have been actively posting scores in 2022 and wish to continue maintaining a handicap? You will need to transfer your account to GHIN, be sure to provide your CCID# found in your GolfNet profile when signing up for GHIN. This ensures that your scoring history will transfer and there will be no interruption of your Handicap calculation.
Please know we are here to assist! If you are unable to access your account or have questions, please contact Kathy Anderson at handicap@lpgaamateursseattle.com.
