“My credit card company says I have an outstanding balance. I’m flattered”

An “outstanding balance” means that money is owed, but it’s often joked that an “outstanding balance” means a wonderful or exceptional balance. “It is so nice to receive a compliment from my Visa card bank. They told me I have an ‘Outstanding’ balance,” a post to a 1999 newsgroup joked. “Wow banks are happy with me. I have an ‘outstanding balance’ I hope I get a gold star next time” was cited on Twitter on February 15, 2009.
 
The American comedian Demetri Martin made a popular tweet on April 21, 2012:
 
“My credit card company says I have an outstanding balance. I’m flattered.”
 
   
Wikipedia: Demetri Martin
Demetri Evan Martin (born May 25, 1973) is an American comedian, actor, artist, musician, writer, and humorist. He is best known for his work as a stand-up comedian, being a contributor on The Daily Show, and his Comedy Central show Important Things with Demetri Martin.
     
Google Groups: alc.suicide
Compliments
Unknown
9/2/99
It is so nice to receive a compliment from my Visa card bank. They told me I have an ‘Outstanding’ balance.
 
Twitter   
Mr Truffle
‏@100ftzombie
Wow banks are happy with me. I have an “outstanding balance” I hope I get a gold star next time
8:22 PM - 15 Feb 2009
 
Twitter
James Hutchinson
‏@CrashlanderLOL
My credit card people say I have an ‘Outstanding’ balance. Thanks guys, it means a lot to me.
10:26 AM - 18 Aug 2009
 
Twitter 
mike
‏@madpollack
Chase: you have an *outstanding* balance. Me: why thank you
4:33 PM - 7 Apr 2012
 
Twitter
♎. V.♎.
‏@RobDeOso25
... My bank is so proud of me!  It sent me a letter saying that I have an OUTSTANDING balance!
8:24 PM - 12 Apr 2012
 
Twitter
Oli Tonge
‏@realOPJT
‘You have an outstanding balance of ********’ <-sounds gd to me!

9:47 AM - 13 Apr 2012
 
Twitter
Demetri Martin
‏@DemetriMartin
My credit card company says I have an outstanding balance. I’m flattered.
11:34 AM - 21 Apr 2012
 
Twitter
Amanda
‏@amahark
“@DemetriMartin: My credit card company says I have an outstanding balance. I’m flattered.” Amen.
11:35 AM - 21 Apr 2012