Starting January 1st 2022, the integration between TheGrint and the USGA for handicapping will evolve.
While Grinters will continue to be able to manage and sync their scoring record from TheGrint, the payment of Handicaps will now be required to happen directly with the USGA.
NOTE: existing PRO and Handicap members (prior to the change), will be able to maintain their Handicap ID’s active until Dec 31st 2022.
Ok, step by step, How does it work currently prior to the upcoming Jan 1st 2022 change?
Currently, as a TheGrint user you can link your Handicap ID (GHIN#) to your profile, and all your scores will be synced automatically with the USGA servers.
Got it, now, What changes for existing PRO or Handicap Members?
If you are already a PRO or Handicap member, changes won’t affect you until the end of 2022. Your Handicap ID will remain active until Dec 31st 2022. And then in 2023 you will have to reactivate and make your payment in the USGA website.
And what changes for those that are Free or New users after Jan 1st 2022?
From Jan 1st 2022 and on, the only change is that Grinters will have to make payments directly at the USGA website to create or activate your Handicap ID (GHIN#).
Once you do so, you will continue to be able to manage and sync your scoring record with the USGA servers using TheGrint.
Within TheGrint we will publish a link to the USGA’s website, where you will be able to purchase and create/activate your Handicap ID. And, eventually, if you purchase using that link, your newly activated handicap ID will be linked to your TheGrint profile.
So what should I do now?
Well, if you have a PRO or Handicap membership already, you don’t have to do anything. Things will remain the same for at least one more year.
If you don’t have a PRO or Handicap membership, and you want a Handicap ID (GHIN#), you should consider buying it now from us at our PROshop. Otherwise, starting Jan 1st, 2022 you will need to purchase it directly from the USGA.
I hope this helps clarify, but if you have questions please don’t hesitate to comment below.
Enjoy your golf!
Travis King
I have been a PRO member for the past couple of years. Can you explain how this is supposed to work. I attempt to verify my WHS# on the GHIN site and it states that I have to belong to an approved association. How do I create this link between The Grint and GHIN website as you stated in your email ? (Currently, as a TheGrint user you can link your Handicap ID (GHIN#) to your profile, and all your scores will be synced automatically with the USGA servers.)
Thanks
TheGrinter
Hi Travis –
First I want to clarify that the WHS# we provide is created in the USGA servers and it is pretty much the same as a GHIN#. Both the WHS# and the GHIN# are Handicap IDs generated by the USGA and part of the same centralized network of handicaps.
GHIN.com is a separate company from TheGrint, so you won’t have access to GHIN.com. However, if someone with access to GHIN.com runs a handicap lookup for you, the system will find you.
If you have an active Handicap ID with us, then it is already link, and your scores are already syncing with the USGA servers. If you have further questions, send an email to contactus@thegrint.com and they can run a search and show you how the scores are linked.
william louie
My credit card is on file to pay the annual fee. Do I pay directly to USGA for 2022?
Thank you
William Louie
TheGrinter
HI William – If your membership (PRO or Handicap) is active we will take care of that payment to the USGA for you in 2022. So there is nothing you have to do. Send an email to contactus@thegrint.com if you have further questions.
ScottyTheGolfer
I have a handicap membership that expires on 6/16/2022. Based on the information provided, it is not clear what will happen when I need to renew it in the middle of the season. Please advise. Thank you
TheGrinter
Hi Scott, great question.
In your case, if you renew on June 16 2022, your USGA Handicap ID will remain active until Dec 30th 2022. And then after Jan 1st 2023 you will have to pay the renewal fee at the USGA website (we will provide you with a link).
If you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to email us at contactus@thegrint.com
Scott
Thank you very much. Have a great holiday really appreciate what you all do.