Who Handles My Handicap?

Your official golf handicap is managed through your Home Club. Here’s how the process works:

• Club Registration: Your chosen Home Club will set you up in their database, provided the club allows handicaps under your membership type.

• Transferring an Existing Handicap: If you already have a World Handicap System (WHS) membership number, your historical and current handicap can be transferred to your new club. Simply provide your WHS number to your Home Club, and they will handle the transfer.

Receiving Your Handicap

To obtain your official handicap, you will need to pay an affiliation fee directly to your Home Club. This fee enables the governing bodies to process and maintain your handicap. A portion of this fee goes to England Golf, while the remainder is allocated to your County Golf Union. For detailed information, visit England Golf.

Getting Started

The easiest way to begin the process is to contact your chosen club directly. The club’s Admin or Competition Secretary can answer any questions and guide you through the necessary steps. Additionally, current members often share helpful advice and insights on the club’s Members Group on Facebook.

What is an Affiliation Fee?

An affiliation fee is a mandatory payment that allows your club to register you with the relevant national and local governing bodies. This fee:

• Enables you to hold an official WHS handicap

• Provides insurance coverage

• Offers additional benefits depending on your club

Paying this fee ensures your handicap is recognised and maintained in line with official regulations.