I was born in August 1951, FRA is next August (2017) - at that time I can access spousal benefits of about $700/month OR I could file to get my own about $1500/month. I plan to continue working as long as I can to further add to my retirement funds and not use my ss money. Wouldn't it be better to take my own since it would not be subject to earnings clawback? Even considering that the cash would be reduced by taxes imposed?

Hi,

If you defer taking your own benefit until age 70 it will increase by 32%, or to about $1980 per month based on your cited figures. Therefore, your choices would be:
1) Take your own at age 66 and receive about $1500 per month from then on; or,
2) File for spousal benefits only at age 66, and then switch to your own account at age 70.

Option 1 above will give you about $800 more per month from ages 66 to 70, whereas option 2 will give you about $480 more per month starting at age 70 and continuing for as long as you live. Your future earnings may also result in a higher amount being payable on your account, and an even larger difference between the age 66 & 70 rates.

It's entirely your choice to make, but if you expect to live an average life span or longer, I think most people would choose option 2.

Best, Jerry