USGA Handicap Review Tool – Comparison to Other Softwarelast updated April 7, 2026

The following table is intended to provide distinction between the USGA Handicap Review Tool and other software available to golf clubs, where other software is permitted to provide additional information to support the Handicap Committee, as well as Competition Committees who have the discretion to set the terms of their Competition(s).

The USGA Handicap Review Tool is the only tool authorized to recommend an adjustment to a player’s Handicap Index®. The USGA Handicap Review Tool uses the Expected Score and Player Equations intrinsic within the World Handicap System™ that are also used for the playing conditions calculation (PCC) and treatment of 9-hole and 10-17-hole scores.

As a reminder, clubs should follow the procedures under the Rules of Handicapping (Rule 7.1a) when adjusting a Handicap Index.

USGA Handicap Review Tool	Other Software
Exclusively for Handicap Committees at authorized golf clubs.	Primarily used by Committees in charge of competitions.
Only authorized tool to recommend an adjustment to a player’s Handicap Index® (effective January 1, 2025).	May be used to recommend an adjustment to a player’s Course Handicap™/Playing Handicap™.
Utilizes World Handicap System™ Expected Score and Player Equations intrinsic to the WHS™.	May use order of finish to consider potential adjustments.
Provided and delivered by the USGA to authorized golf clubs through their Allied Golf Association.	May be used for additional data points to assist the Handicap Committee in its handicap review, such as tee-sheet comparisons for posting on the day of play.
Integrated into handicap administration software for ease of use by clubs.	May or may not be integrated with USGA handicap data.
Retains historical information on recommended adjustments and action taken by the Committee.	MAY NOT recommend an adjustment to a player’s Handicap Index.