Built to protect what you’ve earned

With deep expertise in tax planning and strategy, Fortress Tax Services gives Raleigh business owners the clarity and confidence to grow, protect, and transfer their wealth—without overpaying the IRS.

Our mission is to help business owners make informed tax decisions—so they can master what matters most in their lives.

— Joe Grabar, Fortress Managing Principal

Core Values

Advocacy

We stand by business owners, navigating complex tax decisions and advocating for long-term success.

Integrity

We operate with the highest ethical standards—no shortcuts, no conflicts, just sound guidance.

Service

We go beyond the numbers to deliver personal, proactive support through every stage of your financial journey.

What makes us different

We combine personal attention with deep tax expertise to deliver strategies built around your business and your goals.

Client-centered

Every tax plan is built around your business—not templates or checklists.

Process-driven

Our step-by-step approach ensures nothing is missed and you’re always in control.

Comprehensive & integrated planning focus

We coordinate your tax strategy with retirement, entity structure, investments, and estate goals.

Unparalleled experience & expertise

Years of experience working with business owners across sectors—we know what works.

Uniquely independent

No quotas. No sales pressure. Just strategic advice designed to benefit your bottom line.

Who We Serve

Early-Career High Earners (30s–40s)

Building wealth quickly and looking to minimize taxes early through long-term strategy.

Passive Investors

Hands-off investors focused on cash flow, asset protection, and tax-optimized structures.

Exit-Stage Business Owners

Preparing for a business exit and looking to minimize or defer capital gains tax.

Tech Employees with Equity

Navigating RSUs, stock options, and capital gains — tax timing is everything.

Real Estate Investors

Managing passive income, capital gains, and depreciation — always seeking more efficient structures.

Pre-Retirees (50s–60s)

Looking to optimize the last decade of earnings, reduce taxes, and structure guaranteed income in retirement.

Business Owners

Actively building businesses and seeking to reinvest tax savings into growth.

High-Income W-2 Earners

Earning strong salaries and looking for advanced tax strategies beyond retirement contributions.

Our Vision?

The life abundant for our clients, our colleagues, and our community.

Our Journey from Vision to Success

Fortress Tax Services was built on the belief that business owners deserve more than just year-end tax prep—they deserve a proactive partner.

Established Roots

Founded in Raleigh, NC to help clients navigate financial complexity with clarity and confidence.

Expanding Services

We added comprehensive tax planning, preparation, and compliance for business owners.

Expanding Our Reach

Now serving clients across the Southeast and beyond with remote access and national expertise.

Continued Growth

We continue to evolve, offering advanced strategies to help business owners minimize taxes and build generational wealth.

Your trusted partner in tax-smart business strategy

We help Raleigh business owners align tax, retirement, and exit strategy to grow and protect what they’ve built.

Personalized planning

Every business is different. We tailor each plan to your goals and structure.

Proactive tax planning

We reduce tax drag and capture opportunities others miss.

Entity optimization

Ensure your business structure supports tax efficiency and long-term planning.

Retirement readiness

Design tax-aware savings and withdrawal plans for a smooth exit.

Legacy planning

Keep more in the family through smart gifting, trusts, and estate coordination.

Ongoing guidance

We're your long-term partner—not just a once-a-year tax preparer.