Thanks for the link. Unfortunately, being new to Medicare in 2012, it looks like I'm going to be taking better than a $115 hit on my SS check. Just what I need.
Yes, Medicare premiums are means tested already. I believe that $115 is the base for 2011. The new booklet they sent out for 2012 says the premiums for 2012 haven't been announced yet. Which certainly means an increase for 2012 premiums is on the way.
I can't complain too much as my former employer, who is now my secondary insurer repays me the medicare premiums every 6 months in a lump payment.
Believe me that $115 is trivial compared to what that policy would cost from an insurance company. That’s why Medicare is going broke.