Feeling trapped by an income share agreement (ISA) that isn’t working out the way you expected? You’re not alone. If you signed up for an ISA through a bootcamp or training program with promises of job placement and now find yourself questioning the deal—or worse, facing collection threats—it’s time to understand your options.

ISAs sound like a modern alternative to traditional student loans, and they are marketed that way. But here’s the reality: they’re still legally binding contracts. The funder covers your tuition upfront, and you repay them as a percentage of your income once you’re earning above an agreed-upon salary threshold. The problem? They’re largely unregulated, which means the terms can vary wildly—and sometimes work against you.

Understanding Your ISA Contract

Your specific options for getting out of an ISA depend entirely on what your contract says and the state laws that govern it. Most ISA contracts outline three standard ways to fulfill your obligation:

• Completing all required payments
• Paying your payment cap (the maximum amount you owe)
• Reaching the end of your payment window (the time limit for payments)

But here’s what matters most: read your contract carefully. Some agreements use language that can be misleading about what the funder actually guarantees. Just because they promised job placement doesn’t automatically mean you have legal recourse if that promise wasn’t fulfilled—it depends on how it’s written.

If You Think There’s Been a Breach

If you believe your funder didn’t hold up their end of the bargain, you need professional guidance. A consumer protection attorney can review your specific contract and determine whether there’s actually been a legal breach. They’ll cut through the legalese and tell you whether you have legitimate grounds to challenge the agreement.

This is especially important if your funder is threatening litigation or refusing to work with you on resolving the dispute. You need someone in your corner who understands consumer law and can protect your rights.

Finding the Right Legal Help

Getting proper representation doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Here’s how to find an attorney:

• Ask your network: Start with recommendations from family, friends, and coworkers
• Contact your state or local bar association: They can connect you with qualified attorneys in your area
• Look into legal aid: Many areas have legal aid organizations offering reduced-fee or free consultations based on income
• Ask about free consultations: Many attorneys offer at least a free initial consultation

When you’re considering an attorney, ask about their experience with ISAs and consumer contracts, confirm their fees upfront, and verify they’re in good standing with your state bar.

Take Action Now

ISAs are complex, unregulated financial products, and you shouldn’t navigate them alone—especially if you’re facing payment disputes or legal threats. Getting professional legal advice isn’t just smart; it’s essential for protecting yourself and understanding what options actually exist.

You have rights, and you deserve to know what they are. Let’s make your money work for you—not against you.