Plus Handicap
Also known as: plus handicap, plus handicap index, better than scratch, giving strokes back to the course, what does a plus handicap mean
A plus handicap means you are better than a scratch golfer. Your Handicap Index calculates below zero, so it is written with a plus sign, such as +2. Instead of getting strokes, you give strokes back to the course, starting at the hole with stroke index 18.
A scratch golfer has a Handicap Index of 0.0. When your best 8 Score Differentials average below zero, the result is a plus index. A differential below zero means you scored better than the Course Rating.
With a plus Playing Handicap, you add strokes to your gross score for net competitions. The Rules of Handicapping say these strokes start at stroke index 18. A +2 player gives a stroke back on the holes with stroke indexes 18 and 17. Unless a committee says otherwise, that is the order.
When a handicap allowance applies, a plus Playing Handicap moves toward zero. That keeps the gap between players fair. Plus handicaps are rare among club golfers. Associations may have extra checks before issuing a very low index.
Tips by skill level
Read a plus handicap as negative strokes. A +1 adds one stroke to the gross score.
In match play allowances, remember the lowest Playing Handicap plays off zero. A plus player may give strokes to opponents through the difference.
Example
A +3 golfer shoots 70 on a course where she gives three strokes back. Her net score is 73.
Why it matters
A plus handicap is the mark of an elite amateur. Knowing how it works avoids confusion when you play in net events with one.
Common mistakes
- Subtracting strokes from a plus golfer's score instead of adding them
- Giving the strokes back on the hardest holes instead of from stroke index 18
- Thinking scratch and plus mean the same thing
Frequently asked questions
How does a plus handicap work in net scoring?
You add your plus strokes to your gross score. A +2 player who shoots 71 has a net score of 73.
Is a plus handicap better than scratch?
Yes. Scratch is a Handicap Index of 0.0. A plus index is below zero. As a result, the player is expected to score better than the Course Rating.
Sources
Related terms
- Scratch GolferA scratch golfer is one with a Handicap Index of 0.0. On an average day, they are expected to shoot right around the course rating. It is a benchmark reached by only a small fraction of golfers.
- Handicap IndexA Handicap Index is the World Handicap System (WHS) measure of a golfer's demonstrated playing ability on a neutral course. A lower index means a better player.
- Stroke Index (Handicap Holes)Stroke index ranks the 18 holes from 1 to 18 to show where strokes are given. You receive a stroke on every hole ranked at or below your Course Handicap. With a Course Handicap of 8, your strokes fall on the holes ranked 1 to 8.
- Net Score vs Gross ScoreGross score is the actual number of strokes taken. Net score subtracts a player's course handicap from that total, letting golfers of different skill levels compete on a fair, adjusted basis.
- Playing Handicap and Handicap Allowances (Why 95%)You get 95% in individual stroke play because that is the World Handicap System's recommended allowance for net events with medium fields. It is meant to give every player a similar chance of finishing in the top 10% when playing well. Your Playing Handicap is your Course Handicap times the allowance for the format.
Related guides & benchmarks
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