Available Soon: USGA® Handicap Index® in the Golf Pad app

Golfers have asked "Can I automatically pull my USGA Handicap Index® into the Golf Pad app?" 

Our team has been working diligently in partnership with the United States Golf Association® to bring this popular feature request to our users. Later in November, 2023, golfers will be able to do exactly this - pull their official handicap from the USGA® into the Golf Pad app. 

For those who are unfamiliar, a golf handicap index is a numerical measure that represents a golfer's playing ability and is designed to allow players of different skill levels to compete on a more equal playing field. The index is calculated based on a golfer's recent scores, taking into account the difficulty of the courses played. A lower handicap index indicates an experienced, skilled golfer, while a higher index suggests a less experienced or skilled player.

Here are the details.

Handicap Index® management in the Golf Pad app

As a result of the collaboration with the USGA®, Golf Pad users have the incredible opportunity to manage their Handicap Index® directly within the Golf Pad app. This new feature will be launched by the end of November, 2023. 

How will the new Handicap Index® feature work?

Golfers who want to take advantage of this feature can simply merge their updated Handicap Index® using their Handicap ID in the Golf Pad app! This new feature allows you to effortlessly retrieve updated handicap information prior to your round and you can remove this access at any time.

Can I post new scores to my Handicap Index® from the Golf Pad app?

The ability to post your scores and automatically update your USGA Index directly from the Golf Pad app is in the works! Our developers are working hard and look forward to adding this functionality very soon.

Are there any accompanying changes?

Golf Pad will be removing our current handicap calculator, as a required change by the USGA®.  For those of you who don't have a USGA® Handicap ID, you can manually enter a handicap for yourself and playing partners in the golfer settings. Or better yet, find your Allied Golf Association to sign up for a USGA Handicap Index®

What does this mean for users outside the USGA®?

We've prepared an alternative solution for golfers outside the jurisdiction of the USGA®: the Golf Pad Ability Estimate. This estimate is derived from Golf Pad community scores, the courses you've played, and your tee selection. Your personalized Ability Estimate is crafted from your best rounds within your scoring history, compared against the average scores within the Golf Pad community.

*It's important to note that the Golf Pad Ability Estimate is not a Handicap Index® and does not employ any proprietary WHS™ formulas.

The commitment to our global users.
We are actively engaging with various golf governing bodies worldwide to explore similar partnerships and agreements. Golf Pad is dedicated to continuously enhancing your golfing journey wherever you call home. This partnership with the USGA® marks a significant milestone in Golf Pad's commitment to providing you with the best tools to improve your game. We are confident these developments will elevate your golfing experience to new heights.

Is this new feature available for Android and Apple devices?

Yes! The ability to pull your official handicap from the USGA® into the Golf Pad app is available for both Android and iPhone users.

Have more questions?

As always, we love to hear your feedback. If you have comments or questions, click here to contact our team.