My husband is 80 and has been receiving SS benefits since he was 62. I am 67 (6/2/1950) and plan to start receiving SS at age 70 (6/2/2020). Am I eligible to receive spousal benefits now without jeopardizing my ability to receive the maximum amount of social security based on my own greater-than-his income when I turn 70?

Hi,

Yes. Since you were born prior to January 2 1954 and are over full retirement age, you can file a restricted application just for spousal benefits only while allowing your own benefit rate to continue growing until age 70. It sounds like that would almost certainly be your best option, so you will likely want to file as soon as possible. Social Security applications can be retroactive for up to 6 months from the month of filing, and there doesn't appear to be any reason not to claim the maximum retroactivity in your case.

Best, Jerry