An IRA is simply where the investments are held until withdrawn at retirement. The traditional IRA contribution can be tax deductible, but when the money is withdrawn at retirement it will be taxed. The Roth IRA contribution is not deductible, but when withdrawn at retirement the money is tax-free. 401k, 403b, and 457 plans are very popular at large companies and institutions. These plans allow you to save for your retirement with pretax dollars.
Some plans offer matching dollars.
This is too good of an opportunity to pass up. If you contribute to your retirement plan, since it is before tax, you have the entire dollar invested. And if your company has a matching plan, the additional money is added to your account. Obviously the retirement account is a big plus. The Debt Management industry, also known as Credit Counseling, has grown into a very powerful weapon against debt over the past decade.