What happens if I make a mistake adding up my scores or applying my handicap on the scorecard?

You are not penalized for addition mistakes — the Committee is responsible for adding up your scores. If you apply the wrong handicap, you are disqualified only if it affects the number of strokes you receive; otherwise the Committee corrects it.

Addition errors are the Committee's job

If you return a scorecard with the right hole scores but the total is wrong, you don't get penalized. Rule 3.3b(4) makes it clear: the Committee is responsible for adding up the hole scores and applying the handicap. Your job is to make sure each individual hole score is correct and the scorecard is certified. The math is on them.

Wrong handicap — when it costs you

In a handicap competition, returning a scorecard with a handicap higher than you're entitled to (so you get more strokes than you should) means disqualification. If the handicap on the card is lower than your actual one, or if it's wrong but doesn't change the number of strokes you receive, the Committee simply corrects it and you keep playing. The penalty only bites when the error affects the outcome.

Your responsibility: hole scores and certification

You must check that every hole score the marker wrote down is right before you sign. Once you return the card, a hole score that's lower than what you actually made stands — but if it's higher, you're stuck with the higher number. The marker certifies the hole scores; you certify them too and hand the card in. That's the whole deal.

Exceptions that change the answer

• The Committee finds your breach of Rule 3.3b(2) was caused by the marker failing to do their job — like leaving with your scorecard or not certifying it — and it was beyond your control → There is no penalty. The exception protects you when the marker's failure, not your own mistake, caused the problem.

Frequently asked questions

What if I add up my total score wrong on the card?

No penalty. The Committee is responsible for adding up the hole scores and calculating your net score. You only need to ensure each individual hole score is correct.

I put a higher handicap on my card than I should have. Am I disqualified?

Yes. In a handicap competition, returning a scorecard with a handicap higher than you're entitled to — meaning you'd get more strokes — results in disqualification under Rule 3.3b(4).

I put a lower handicap on my card. What happens?

The Committee corrects it to your actual handicap. You are not disqualified because the error didn't give you extra strokes.

My marker left without signing my card. Do I get penalized?

No, not if it was beyond your control. The exception to Rule 3.3b(2) says there's no penalty when the breach was caused by the marker failing to carry out their responsibilities.

Can I fix a hole score after I've returned the scorecard?

No. Once the scorecard is returned, you can't change a hole score. If the score on the card is lower than what you actually made, it stands. If it's higher, you're stuck with the higher score.