What is a shot allowance?
A shot allowance is a percentage applied to a player’s Course Handicap to produce a Playing Handicap for a specific format. Different formats use different allowances to keep competition fair.
Free golf shot allowance calculator (WHS™)
Need a quick Playing Handicap for today’s format? HANDICALC™ calculates shot allowances using World Handicap System™ methodology and typical allowance percentages used for singles, match play, fourball, foursomes and team formats.
Allowances shown here are typical. Always follow your club’s Terms of Competition if they differ.
Last updated: 22 February 2026
How to calculate Playing Handicap
Playing Handicap = Allowance × Course Handicap. Your competition may specify a rounding method and whether strokes are received/given (e.g. match play).
Tip: If you’re not sure which allowance applies, check the format name on the scorecard or Terms of Competition.
Need more formats?
HANDICALC™ supports a wide range of formats including greensomes, Chapman/Pinehurst and team competitions. See the full list on the Supported formats page.
Typical allowance percentages by format
These values are commonly used under WHS™ methodology. Clubs and competitions can vary — use these as a guide.
| Format | Typical allowance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Singles (stroke play / medal) | 95% of Course Handicap | Often the same for Stableford unless Terms specify otherwise. |
| Singles match play | 100% of Course Handicap | Strokes are usually given based on the difference in Playing Handicaps. |
| Fourball betterball | 85% of Course Handicap | Each player plays their own ball; best net score counts for the side. |
| Foursomes | 50% of combined Course Handicaps | Partners play alternate shots with one ball. |
| Greensomes | Weighted blend (often 60% low + 40% high) | Both drive, pick best, then alternate shots. Check your club’s Terms. |
| Chapman / Pinehurst | 60% low + 40% high | After second shots, choose best ball and play alternate shots. |
| Texas Scramble (4 players) | 25% / 20% / 15% / 10% (low → high) | Team allowance based on all players’ Course Handicaps. |
| Texas Scramble (3 players) | 30% / 20% / 10% (low → high) | Team allowance based on all players’ Course Handicaps. |
Want a worked example? Open the calculator and enter 2–4 players to see Playing Handicaps instantly.
FAQs
What’s the difference between Course Handicap and Playing Handicap?
Course Handicap reflects the difficulty of the course/tees for your Handicap Index. Playing Handicap applies the format allowance to Course Handicap for the competition you’re playing.
Do clubs always use 95% for singles?
Many do, but not always. Some events or club competitions set different allowances. Always follow the Terms of Competition for the event.
Can I use HANDICALC™ for team formats?
Yes — HANDICALC™ supports team allowances and common UK formats. See Supported formats for details.