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#1 Way to Remove 'Rubin and Rothman' (Hurting Your Score)

Last updated 09/10/25 by
The Credit People
Fact checked by
Ashleigh S.
Quick Answer

Rubin and Rothman is a debt collector, and if they're on your credit report, you likely have a collection hurting your score from an unpaid debt. You can try paying it or disputing it yourself with the bureaus, but both options could potentially damage your score further or drag you through a long, stressful process.

Instead, give us a quick call - our credit experts (20+ years strong) will pull and review your full report to map out the simplest, most effective path forward.

You Could Remove Rubin and Rothman From Your Credit Report

Rubin and Rothman may be hurting your credit more than you think. Call now for a free credit report review so we can identify negative items, dispute inaccuracies, and build a plan to help improve your score.
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Why is Rubin and Rothman calling me?

Most likely they reached you because a debt was placed or sold to them, your number showed up in a skip-trace (wrong number), your identity was mixed with someone else, or they are making pre‑lawsuit litigation outreach. Verify by calling back only on the firm's independently verified number, refuse to give Social Security number or full DOB on an inbound call, and demand a written validation notice (FDCPA requires one within five days of first contact). For details on what that notice must include, see what a validation notice requires, and to check who's reporting pull your reports at get your free credit reports before you negotiate or dispute.

Immediate steps:

  • Log call time, caller name, phone number, account reference and exact language used.
  • Tell them you want written communication only, then stop speaking about the debt on the phone.
  • Pull all three credit reports to see related tradelines and dates.
  • Send a written debt validation request by certified mail, keep return receipt.
  • Note the 30-day dispute clock, prepare supporting documents if you plan to dispute ownership or accuracy.

Which debt types does Rubin and Rothman typically collect?

Rubin and Rothman most often pursues consumer unsecured debts and related judgments, the kinds that commonly appear on credit reports and lead to collection letters or lawsuits.

Common accounts they collect include:

  • Credit card balances (bank and retail cards)
  • Personal loans and lines of credit
  • Retail store accounts and private-label cards
  • Medical bills and hospital balances
  • Telecom and utility arrears
  • Auto deficiency balances after repossession or sale
  • Private student loans (non-FFEL/Perkins federal loans)
  • Landlord-tenant judgments and unpaid rent claims
  • Charged-off accounts purchased by third-party debt buyers

Collections may be "placed" by the original creditor for a fee, or "purchased" outright by a buyer; either way a law firm can sue on behalf of the creditor or buyer. Always match the creditor name and account number on the Rubin and Rothman letter to the entry on your credit report before acknowledging the debt.

If litigation appears, itemizations can add court costs, post-judgment interest, and filing fees to the amount demanded; verify those line items and your rights via the CFPB debt collection overview.

Is Rubin and Rothman Legit or a Scam? How to Tell

Short answer: Rubin and Rothman often operate as a legitimate collection law firm, but you must verify before you pay.

Legit checks: confirm the contacting attorney is bar‑licensed and the firm is registered in the state; compare the firm's phone and address to the firm website contact page; insist on a written validation notice and do not pay from a call alone; review the firm's BBB profile and CFPB complaint history; match any court 'case number' on the local court docket or PACER federal court records; preserve all messages and caller ID screenshots.

Red flags: threats of arrest or jail, demands for payment by gift cards, prepaid wires, or cryptocurrency, refusal to mail documents, pressure to pay immediately, or callers who won't provide a written validation. If you suspect an imposter, follow official guidance at FTC imposter scam tips. For reputation checks use the BBB complaint and rating lookup.

If anything looks off, refuse to give payment or personal data, demand validation in writing, document everything, file a CFPB and BBB complaint, and consult a consumer attorney before negotiating or settling.

Official Rubin and Rothman Contact Details (Phone & Address)

Call or mail only through verified firm channels; below are Rubin & Rothman's public contact details and a certified-mail caution to protect your rights.

  • Address: Rubin and Rothman, LLC, 1787 Veterans Memorial Highway, Islandia, NY 11749 (mail to P.O. Box 550 for payments listed on their site). 
  • Phone & fax: Main toll-free 1‑800‑298‑6058; office (631) 234‑1500; fax (631) 234‑1138. 
  • Hours: Monday–Thursday 8:30 AM–6:00 PM, Friday 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (per firm site). 
  • Certified‑mail caution: Use only these verified contacts, and send any dispute or debt‑validation requests by certified mail, return receipt requested; keep copies and tracking for evidence. 
  • Sources: firm contact information available on the Rubin & Rothman contact page, verify attorney status using the New York attorney search.

What Are My FDCPA Rights When Contacting Rubin and Rothman?

You have clear federal protections when dealing with Rubin and Rothman, and knowing them stops illegal pressure and protects your credit fight.

  • No harassment or abuse, including threats, profanity, repeated calls, or shaming.
  • No false or misleading statements about the debt, identity, or legal status.
  • No threats of arrest, false lawsuits, or misrepresenting wages or bank levies.
  • No disclosure of your debt to third parties, except limited contacts to locate you.
  • Calls must follow time rules, generally between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. local time.
  • Collectors must give required disclosures, including their name, amount, and the validation notice.
  • Venue and jurisdiction statements must be accurate; they cannot misstate where you can be sued.
  • You may request validation and dispute the debt in writing, which triggers specific rights.

You have 30 days from first written notice to request debt validation, and while that dispute is pending the collector must stop collection efforts until they verify the debt or provide proof. You can also send a written cease-communication letter and the collector must stop contacting you except to say they will stop or to notify of specific legal actions.

Preserve all records: save voicemails, call logs, texts, letters, dates, and screenshots as evidence. For official rule text and examples see the CFPB FDCPA summary.

How to use your rights

  • Send a dated, signed validation request by certified mail and keep the receipt.
  • If you want them to stop, send a written cease-communication notice by certified mail.
  • Log every contact (date, time, rep name, content) and keep originals/screenshots.
  • Dispute incorrect items with the credit bureaus in writing and attach proof.
  • If rights are violated, file a complaint with CFPB and consider consulting a consumer attorney.

How to Request Debt Validation from Rubin and Rothman and What If It's Not Provided?

Start by demanding verification in writing immediately, because Rubin and Rothman must validate any debt they try to collect.

  • 1) Within 30 days of first contact, send a debt validation/dispute letter.
  • 2) Demand itemization, the original creditor's name, account number, last payment date, and total balance.
  • 3) Request a signed copy of the original agreement and proof of the chain of title showing they own or legally control the debt.
  • 4) Ask whether the debt is time-barred under your state statute of limitations.
  • 5) Request written verification that includes how they calculated the balance and any fees or interest.
  • 6) State you dispute the debt until verification is provided and demand they cease collection while verifying.
  • 7) Keep copies of everything and send by certified mail with return receipt.
  • 8) Note you expect a written response and a validation notice per federal rules.

Send the letter by certified mail, pause phone negotiations, and do not admit liability in calls. Collection must stop until they mail proper verification, and a proper validation notice must include itemized proof; if Rubin and Rothman continue calling, attempt to record dates and facts and follow the steps below.

If they keep collecting or report the debt without marking it disputed, file a dispute with each credit bureau and include your validation letter and proof of mailing; demand reinvestigation under the FCRA. If collection practices violate the FDCPA, send a complaint to regulators and consider an attorney. For templates, use CFPB sample letters for debt collectors.

Act fast, insist on paperwork, and escalate to the credit bureaus and regulators if verification is not produced.

Pro Tip

⚡ To boost your chances of removing a Rubin and Rothman entry from your credit report, send a debt validation letter by certified mail within 30 days of their first contact, request proof like a signed contract and itemized charges, and dispute any unverifiable or inaccurate info directly with all three credit bureaus using documentation under FCRA and FDCPA protections.

How do I remove debt from Rubin and Rothman that's not mine?

Start by treating the account as identity-theft or a mixed-file error and move quickly to block and remove the tradeline.

Place a fraud alert or credit freeze immediately and request debt validation in writing from Rubin and Rothman while disputing the item with all three credit bureaus; file a report and affidavit at how to report identity theft, which creates the documentation collectors and bureaus need. Once you submit the IdentityTheft.gov packet and a police report (if available), demand removal under FCRA §605B, which requires blocking identity-theft tradelines within four business days after proper documentation. Also use the bureaus' dispute channels and follow the CFPB process explained in CFPB dispute guidance. Pull your files at free annual credit reports to confirm removals.

Keep a meticulous dossier: copies of the validation request, IdentityTheft.gov report, affidavit, police report, mailed receipts, and any collector responses; insist on deletion not 'closed' or 'paid' entries and escalate to state AG or CFPB if Rubin and Rothman refuse.

  • Place fraud alert and/or credit freeze immediately.
  • Send written debt-validation to Rubin and Rothman by certified mail.
  • File IdentityTheft.gov report and notarized affidavit.
  • Dispute with Equifax, Experian, TransUnion and include the packet.
  • Cite FCRA §605B and demand blocking within four business days.
  • Keep police report and a dated evidence folder.
  • Escalate to CFPB or state attorney general if deletion is denied.

Can Rubin and Rothman contact me at work, via social media, after hours, or through my friends/family?

Yes - federal rules limit how debt collectors can reach you, and you can set strict boundaries now. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act forbids calls before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. local time, bars workplace contact when your employer objects, restricts social-media use (no public posts about your debt), and allows third-party contacts only to locate you without revealing the debt. For full government guidance see CFPB communication rules.

Practical steps and exact language you can use right away:

  • Work: "Do not call my workplace. Employer policy prohibits collection calls."
  • After-hours: "Do not call me before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. local time."
  • Social media: "Do not contact me via social media or post about my account."
  • Friends/family: "Do not disclose debt information to anyone, you may only contact third parties to obtain my location."
  • Revoking consent: "I revoke any prior permission to call or text me at this number, effective immediately."
  • Written-only request: "Send all communications to me in writing at [your address or email]. Do not call or contact otherwise."

Send these requests certified mail or email, keep copies, and keep a log of any violations for complaint or legal action.

How do I stop Rubin and Rothman from harassing me or engaging in abusive, unfair practices?

Start by stopping the behavior and preserving proof immediately: document every call, message, time, and agent, then demand they stop contacting you except in writing.

  • Save call logs, voicemails, screenshots, text threads, and certified mail receipts.
  • Send a written cease-and-desist or limited-contact letter by certified mail, keep the return receipt.
  • Request debt validation in writing and refuse to discuss until they validate the debt.
  • Only record calls if your state allows, check the rules at 50-state call recording laws.
  • If they persist, file a complaint with the CFPB at submit a complaint to CFPB and your state attorney general.
  • Track every violation (harassment, threats, calls after hours, contacting third parties) for a pattern.
  • Consider demand letter/FDCPA suit: consult a consumer-law attorney to evaluate statutory damages and injunctive relief.

If Rubin and Rothman keep abusing you after a written demand and complaints, a lawyer can pursue FDCPA damages, stop further contact, and possibly remove related credit reporting, so act quickly and keep impeccable records.

Red Flags to Watch For

🚩 Rubin and Rothman may initiate lawsuits even if the debt is questionable, banking on the likelihood that you won't respond in time and will lose automatically. Always check court dockets and respond promptly, even if you're unsure the debt is real.
🚩 By paying without first demanding detailed validation, you may end up settling a debt that was already expired, legally uncollectible, or not even yours. Force them to prove everything before handing over a cent.
🚩 If you agree to pay or settle verbally without a written agreement, they could later deny your terms and still demand more. Never make payment promises over the phone - insist on written documentation.
🚩 Talking to Rubin and Rothman by phone without recording or writing things down risks misstatements or threats going unproven if things go wrong. Insist on written-only communication and log every conversation.
🚩 Allowing them to access your bank account for autopay may give them ongoing withdrawal rights you didn't intend. Only pay through one-time, pre-authorized methods with clear written limits.

Can Rubin and Rothman add interest, fees, or charges to the original debt?

Yes - but only when those extras are *authorized by contract* or *permitted by law*. Debt collectors like Rubin and Rothman cannot arbitrarily tack on new interest, fees, or penalties unless your original agreement allows them or a state statute (for example prejudgment interest, court costs, or attorney's fees) authorizes recovery.

Demand a written *itemized accounting* immediately, then compare every line to the creditor's charge-off balance and your original contract. If amounts don't match, note the specific disputed entries, the date each fee began, and whether a contract clause or statute supports it. Send a written dispute and request for documentation by certified mail, keep copies, and cite your right to verification.

If they refuse or produce vague entries, threaten a complaint to regulators and use the CFPB's debt collection standards to back your request, see CFPB debt validation standards. For state-specific fee rules and to file complaints, contact your attorney general, see find your state attorney general. If unauthorized fees remain, you can dispute them with credit bureaus and consider legal action under the FDCPA or state consumer laws.

Can Rubin and Rothman garnish wages, benefits, or freeze bank accounts without notice?

Short answer: No, Rubin and Rothman cannot legally grab your pay, benefits, or bank account without first suing you, serving you properly, obtaining a court judgment, and then using court-ordered garnishment or levy within federal and state limits.

A creditor or collector must file suit, have you served, win judgment, and return to court for a writ of garnishment or levy before wages or bank accounts are touched; emergency freezes without those steps are not lawful. Federal rules cap wage garnishments (typically the lesser of 25% of disposable pay or the amount over 30 times the federal minimum wage), see the specific DOL wage garnishment limits for details and state variations.

Certain benefits are exempt from garnishment, including Social Security, SSI, VA benefits, and many pensions, though some nonexempt funds in an account can be levied unless you claim exemptions fast. If a post-judgment notice, bank levy, or wage withholding arrives, immediately file an exemption claim with the court and provide proof of protected benefits to stop or recover funds.

Practical next steps: don't ignore papers, verify any judgment, photograph notices, assert exemptions in court right away, and call a legal aid clinic or consumer attorney if the collector skips proper procedure or your protected benefits are targeted; you have statutory remedies for unlawful garnishment.

What Are Rubin and Rothman's BBB Ratings and Complaint Records?

Rubin & Rothman currently shows an A rating with BBB accreditation, but the BBB records reveal a steady stream of consumer complaints over recent years focused on verification, billing, garnishment, and failure-to-communicate issues. The BBB page lists about 17 complaints in the last three years with mixed outcomes and several answered but unresolved items, and customer reviews (through April 2025) describe delays removing liens, disputed garnishments, and communication breakdowns; see their Rubin & Rothman BBB profile for dates and individual case notes.

For a broader federal view check CFPB records, which show multiple archived debt-collection complaints for Rubin & Rothman across years (common themes: attempts to collect debts not owed, lack of verification, and threats of legal action); use the CFPB consumer complaint database to filter company-level complaints and trends. Remember, BBB and CFPB entries reveal patterns and response behavior but are one part of the picture when deciding how to respond or dispute a collection.

Key Takeaways

🗝️ Rubin and Rothman likely contacted you about a debt they were assigned or purchased, so it's important to confirm the debt is really yours before taking any action.
🗝️ Only respond to them using their verified contact information, never share sensitive personal details over the phone, and always request a written validation notice.
🗝️ Pull your full credit reports from all three bureaus to see if Rubin and Rothman shows up and compare details like account numbers, balances, and dates.
🗝️ If you think the debt is inaccurate, not yours, or time-barred, send a certified dispute or validation letter immediately and don't make payments until you get proper documentation.
🗝️ If you're unsure what steps to take or want help reviewing your credit reports and resolving the issue, give us a call - we can help analyze your situation and explore your options.

Class-Action Lawsuits and Settlements Involving Rubin and Rothman'

Start here: if you want to know whether Rubin and Rothman were hit by class actions or settlements, check federal and state dockets directly for definitive records.

Search method: look up PACER for federal filings, search CourtListener case dockets and examine state court portals for local suits. Focus on complaint text, class definition, alleged practices, proposed class size, requested relief (damages, injunctive relief, notice), and any motions or settlement papers. Learn docket shorthand: complaints state allegations, motions show defenses, settlement notices show proposed terms and opt-out dates, and final orders show approval or denial.

How to read outcomes: confirm disposition and payment terms, never equate a settlement with an admission of guilt, settlements often resolve risk. If you find a certified class or approved settlement, follow opt-out, claim, and objection deadlines on the docket and retain copies of all filings for disputes with credit bureaus or collectors.

Steps to Take Upon Receiving a Rubin and Rothman Collection Notice

Act fast: treat a Rubin and Rothman collection notice as evidence you must verify, document, and respond within 30 days.

First, preserve everything (notice, envelope, caller details) and confirm the name, address, account number, and amount shown so you know exactly what they claim. Calendar a 30-day dispute window from the date you received the notice; within that window send a debt validation (DV) letter by certified mail, return receipt requested, and request written-only contact if calls stress you. If they fail to validate, you can demand removal and dispute the tradeline with bureaus. Check whether the debt is time-barred by your state statute of limitations before paying or admitting liability.

Next, pull your credit reports and use official templates when disputing or asking for validation. Review matching tradelines for account numbers and dates. For model letters and rights language see CFPB debt collection sample letters and to get reports use request your free credit reports.

Day-one checklist:

  • Save the envelope and all notices (date-stamp them).
  • Confirm your name, address, account number, and claimed balance.
  • Calendar the 30-day dispute deadline from receipt.
  • Send a certified DV letter within 30 days, keep proof.
  • Opt into written-only contact in the DV letter.
  • Pull all three credit reports and match tradelines.
  • Note statute of limitations for your state before paying.
  • If validation fails, dispute with bureaus and demand removal.
  • Consider consumer attorney help for violations or threats.

What if I ignore Rubin and Rothman's communications or can’t pay my debt?

Ignoring Rubin and Rothman won't make the problem disappear; silence risks escalation, including a lawsuit, a default judgment against you, court fees, wage garnishment in some states, and more damage to your credit and wallet.

Instead of ducking calls, first pull your credit reports and confirm the debt, then immediately exercise safe steps: request written debt validation, dispute inaccuracies with the bureaus, or send a written cease communication if harassment occurs. The collector can sue if they have documentation, so a timely dispute or validation request preserves defenses and may stop collection while they verify the claim.

If you truly cannot pay, send a hardship letter or negotiate a realistic written plan or lump-sum settlement, get any agreement in writing before paying, and consider refusing to pay time-barred debts after confirming the statute of limitations for your state. If Rubin and Rothman cross legal lines, document everything and complain to regulators. For clear sample letters and federal guidance on how to respond to collectors, see CFPB guidance on responding to collectors.

Is negotiating a lower amount with Rubin and Rothman a bad idea?

You can often save money by negotiating with Rubin and Rothman, but do it only if you understand the real risks and lock them in in writing.

  • Potential savings, shorter payoff, or one-time lump-sum resolution.
  • Risk: negotiating or making a partial payment can restart the statute of limitations in some states, exposing you to new collection or lawsuit risk.
  • Tax risk: forgiven or settled debt can trigger a Form 1099-C and taxable income, check IRS guidance on Form 1099-C.
  • Credit impact: a settled account often stays as a negative tradeline, which can still hurt your score.
  • Demand written terms before paying, including exact amount, whether account will be marked 'paid in full' or 'settled,' and credit reporting instructions.
  • Never give bank login credentials or set up recurring ACH without a written agreement you can enforce.
  • Ask for a pay-for-delete and get it signed, but know pay-for-delete is rare and not guaranteed.
  • If they don't provide validation or the agreement you negotiated, don't pay; document everything.

If you decide to settle, get a signed, dated agreement that states the account will be reported exactly as agreed, keep copies, and consider consulting a consumer-law attorney or using CFPB resources like CFPB guidance on debt settlements before finalizing anything.

Can Rubin and Rothman Sue Me for Debt or Arrest Me if I Don't Respond?

Yes - Rubin and Rothman can bring a civil lawsuit to collect a debt, but unpaid consumer debt is not a crime so they cannot have you arrested for failing to respond.

  • 1) Confirm you were properly served, keep the envelope and date received.
  • 2) Read the complaint immediately, note claims, amounts, and the court and case number.
  • 3) Calendar the exact deadline to respond, missing it usually allows a default judgment against you.
  • 4) File a written Answer or response in the court that denies or admits each allegation, and raise affirmative defenses like the statute of limitations or identity errors.
  • 5) Collect and demand debt validation, review account docs, and use discovery to test their proof before negotiating.
  • 6) Consider settlement after you see their evidence, or get help from free resources; see the CFPB guide on how to respond to a debt lawsuit and use find free legal aid near you if you need low-cost advice.

What legal actions can I take if Rubin and Rothman violates debt collection laws?

You can pursue money damages, credit fixes, injunctive relief, and enforcement complaints if Rubin and Rothman break debt collection laws.

  • Your remedies: statutory FDCPA damages (up to $1,000) plus actual damages, attorney fees, and court costs.
  • Your remedies: FCRA claims for false or misleading credit reports, including deletion and damages.
  • Your remedies: state UDAP or consumer protection claims, which can yield treble damages or penalties in some states.
  • Your remedies: injunctive relief to stop harassing calls, wrongful collections, or unlawful account actions.

Preserve evidence: save voicemails, call logs, call times, texts, letters, validation notices, account numbers, and screenshots of social posts or employer contacts; pull and save credit reports showing inaccurate entries with dates. Demand validation in writing within 30 days of first contact and note their response or lack of one. Use the CFPB, your state attorney general, and the credit bureaus to report violations and request reinvestigation; small claims court is an option for smaller actual damages, federal court for FDCPA/FCRA claims.

Get legal help: a consumer attorney can evaluate claims, file suit, or negotiate damages and credit remediation; find counsel via the NACA attorney directory or submit evidence to the CFPB complaint portal.

  • Next steps: document everything immediately and freeze changes to credit via reports.
  • Next steps: send a written validation/cease letter by certified mail, keep receipts.
  • Next steps: file complaints with CFPB and your state AG and request bureau reinvestigations.
  • Next steps: consult a consumer lawyer about filing FDCPA, FCRA, or state UDAP claims; consider small claims if damages are modest.

Can I Escape Rubin and Rothman Without Paying Their Alleged Debt?

Yes, you can often avoid paying Rubin and Rothman's asserted debt, but how depends on proof, age of the claim, and your choices.

Start by demanding validation in writing and refusing to admit the debt, because collectors must prove the balance and chain of ownership; if they cannot, you can force removal or a dispute.

If the claim is past the statute of limitations you can use that defense, but avoid written acknowledgements that revive the clock; learn how time limits work at CFPB time-barred debt FAQ.

Negotiation is a practical path, you can settle for less or get a pay-for-delete, but get any agreement in writing before paying; if the account is causing extreme hardship, bankruptcy is an option, see bankruptcy basics from US Courts for what it clears and what it does not.

Also dispute inaccurate reporting with the credit bureaus, watch for improper fees or harassment under the FDCPA, and consult a consumer attorney or a professional credit audit to reveal faster score wins from correcting errors.

Should I choose credit repair over paying Rubin and Rothman directly?

If the Rubin and Rothman entry on your report is wrong or unverifiable, focus on disputing it and credit-repair tactics first; if it's valid and still collectible, negotiate or budget to settle, but don't assume payment erases the mark.

Begin with a targeted credit-report audit to identify which bureau(s) list the item and whether the collector provided verification; dispute inaccuracies with the bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) and use consumer protections before paying. For guidance on what repair companies can and cannot promise, see credit repair scams and your rights. Remember, paying Rubin and Rothman may stop collection activity but usually will not remove the collection from your credit automatically, and 'pay-for-delete' agreements are rare and not guaranteed.

If the debt is legitimate and inside the statute of limitations, compare the long-term score impact of a settled collection versus negotiating a lesser payoff, factoring tax consequences and whether the creditor will sue; document everything in writing and demand validation. A smart first step is mapping errors and high-impact tradelines, then choose disputes, settlement, or a payment plan based on which move raises your score fastest.

You Could Remove Rubin and Rothman From Your Credit Report

Rubin and Rothman may be hurting your credit more than you think. Call now for a free credit report review so we can identify negative items, dispute inaccuracies, and build a plan to help improve your score.
Call 866-382-3410 For immediate help from an expert.
Get Started Online Perfect if you prefer to sign up online.

 9 Experts Available Right Now

54 agents currently helping others with their credit