Tax Preparation Services for Individuals & Businesses in Maine

Professional, Accurate, and Stress-Free Tax Filing for Brunswick, Portland, Augusta, and South Portland

The annual tax season can often feel like a daunting and overwhelming challenge, filled with complex forms, ever-changing regulations, and the constant worry of making a costly mistake. For individuals and businesses across Maine – from the vibrant urban landscape of Portland to the tight-knit communities of Brunswick, the state capital of Augusta, and the growing area of South Portland – navigating the intricacies of federal and state tax codes can be a significant burden. At Clarkson and Clarkson INC., we understand these challenges intimately. Our team of highly experienced accountants is dedicated to transforming your tax preparation experience from a source of anxiety into a streamlined, simple, and stress-free process.


With a profound knowledge of both federal and Maine-specific tax laws, we go beyond mere form filing. Our proactive approach is designed to help you strategically maximize every eligible deduction, legally minimize your tax liabilities, and ensure complete compliance, allowing you to file with total confidence and peace of mind. We are committed to keeping you informed, empowered, and secure in your tax obligations, ensuring you retain more of your hard-earned money while staying fully compliant with all regulations.

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Tax accountant preparing return in Portland Maine

Expert Tax Return Preparation

Clarkson and Clarkson INC. provides comprehensive tax return preparation services tailored to the unique financial situations of our diverse clientele. Our meticulous attention to detail and up-to-date knowledge of tax legislation ensure accuracy and optimization.

Individual Tax Return Preparation

Your personal financial landscape is unique, and your tax return should reflect that. Whether you are a salaried employee, a busy freelancer or entrepreneur, a retiree managing investments, or an individual with multiple complex income sources, our dedicated team ensures your federal and Maine state tax return is not only accurate but also fully optimized to your benefit. We dive deep into your financial details to ensure no opportunity is missed:


  • Comprehensive Deduction & Credit Identification: We go beyond the obvious. Our experts meticulously review your income and expenses to identify every eligible tax credit and deduction you qualify for, ensuring you only pay your fair share – and not a penny more. This includes reviewing deductions for mortgage interest, student loan interest, medical expenses, charitable contributions, and less common credits.
  • Accurate Federal & Maine State Filing: We expertly prepare and file all necessary federal income tax returns (e.g., Form 1040) and your corresponding Maine state tax returns, ensuring all required schedules and forms are properly completed and submitted on time.
  • Guidance on Life Changes: Life events significantly impact your tax situation. We provide essential advice on how major life changes such as marriage, purchasing a home, welcoming a new dependent, sending a child to college, starting a new job, or planning for retirement will affect your taxes, helping you adjust your financial strategy proactively.
  • Year-Round Support & Planning: Our commitment extends beyond tax season. We offer year-round support for any tax-related questions you may have and provide proactive planning advice to help you prepare for future tax years, ensuring consistent compliance and financial efficiency.


We take the time to truly understand your unique financial situation, personal goals, and specific circumstances, ensuring that your tax return is a true reflection of your financial life and that you never pay more in taxes than legally required.

Business Tax Return Filing

The complexities of business taxation require specialized knowledge and a keen eye for detail. For Maine's small businesses, corporations, and growing enterprises, navigating the various state and federal filing requirements can be a significant administrative burden. Clarkson and Clarkson INC. offers expert business tax return filing services designed to ensure compliance, minimize liabilities, and free up your valuable time.

We adeptly handle all types of business tax returns, providing tailored support for:


  • Partnerships, LLCs, S-Corps, and C-Corps: Each business entity has distinct tax implications and filing requirements. We possess the specific expertise to prepare and file accurate returns for your business structure, including Form 1065 for Partnerships, Form 1120-S for S-Corporations, and Form 1120 for C-Corporations, along with all associated schedules.
  • Multi-State and Local Tax Compliance: If your business operates across state lines or has unique local tax obligations, we manage the complexities of multi-state tax filings and ensure compliance with all relevant local tax laws, preventing costly penalties.
  • Quarterly and Annual Filings: Beyond the annual income tax return, we assist with all necessary quarterly estimated tax payments and annual information returns, keeping your business compliant throughout the year.
  • 1099 and Payroll Tax Reporting: We ensure accurate and timely preparation and filing of 1099 forms for independent contractors and manage all aspects of your payroll tax reporting, including federal (e.g., Form 940, 941) and state unemployment and withholding taxes.
  • Industry-Specific Deductions: We understand that different industries have unique tax benefits and deductions. We apply our industry knowledge to identify and leverage every available tax advantage specific to your business operations.


Our proactive approach ensures your business stays fully compliant with all tax regulations, meticulously avoids penalties, and strategically takes advantage of every available tax benefit, ultimately contributing to your bottom line.

Business tax preparation meeting in Brunswick ME

Tax preparation is not merely an annual event of filing forms; it's a dynamic, year-round strategic process that significantly impacts your financial future. At Clarkson and Clarkson INC., we emphasize proactive tax planning and robust compliance strategies designed to help you save money consistently and avoid unwelcome surprises.


Our comprehensive, proactive approach to tax planning and compliance includes:


  • Year-Round Tax Planning Consultations: We don't wait for April 15th. We schedule regular consultations throughout the year to review your financial situation, discuss significant life or business changes, and identify potential tax implications. This ongoing dialogue allows for timely adjustments and strategic decision-making.
  • Estimated Tax Payment Guidance: For self-employed individuals and businesses, accurately calculating and remitting estimated tax payments is crucial to avoid penalties. We provide clear guidance and calculations to ensure your quarterly payments are accurate and timely.
  • Strategies for Reducing Future Liabilities: Our experts work with you to implement forward-thinking strategies aimed at legally reducing your future tax liabilities. This might include advice on retirement contributions (401k, IRA, SEP IRA), maximizing deductible business expenses, optimizing asset depreciation, or exploring tax-advantaged investment opportunities.
  • Advice on Business Structure & Transactions: The way your business is structured can have significant tax implications. We offer expert advice on entity selection and on the tax impact of major business transactions, such as asset purchases, sales, or expansion plans, ensuring you make financially sound decisions.
  • Navigating Tax Law Changes: Tax laws are constantly evolving. We stay meticulously up-to-date on all new federal and state tax legislation, advising you on how these changes might impact your personal or business finances and adjusting your planning accordingly.
  • Ethical and Legal Compliance: Our commitment to compliance means we ensure all strategies are ethically sound and strictly adhere to the latest tax laws and regulations. We pride ourselves on helping clients achieve legitimate tax savings while maintaining impeccable compliance.

We help you make smart, informed financial decisions today that lead to significant tax savings and enhanced financial stability tomorrow, turning complex tax regulations into opportunities.


working on audit report for client

Receiving a notice from the IRS or the Maine Revenue Services can be an incredibly stressful and daunting experience. If you're facing an audit or have received a tax notice, you absolutely do not have to navigate this challenging process alone. Clarkson and Clarkson INC. stands ready to provide comprehensive audit support and expert representation, offering you peace of mind when you need it most.


Our seasoned accountants provide a full range of services designed to manage and resolve your audit or tax notice effectively:


  • Full Audit Support & Representation: We act as your primary point of contact and representative during the entire audit process. This means we handle all communications with tax authorities on your behalf, shielding you from direct interaction and the associated stress.
  • Thorough Document Organization & Submission: Audits require precise documentation. We will meticulously review your financial records, organize all necessary supporting documents, and prepare them for submission to the tax authorities, ensuring everything is presented clearly and accurately.
  • Expert Communication with Tax Authorities: Our team has extensive experience communicating with the IRS and Maine Revenue Services. We understand their procedures, language, and what information they require, enabling us to present your case effectively and professionally.
  • Strategic Resolution Strategies: We develop and implement tailored strategies to address any discrepancies or findings raised by the audit, working diligently to minimize any additional tax liabilities, penalties, or interest. Our goal is to achieve the most favorable outcome possible for your situation.
  • Guidance for Various Audit Types: Whether you're facing an income tax audit, a sales tax audit, or a payroll tax audit, our team has the expertise to support you through the specific requirements and challenges of each type of examination.
  • Appeals Process Support: Should an audit result in a disagreement, we can guide you through the appeals process, continuing to represent your interests to achieve a fair resolution.

With Clarkson and Clarkson INC. by your side, you're never alone in the face of a tax notice or audit. We provide the expert guidance and robust representation needed to navigate these complex situations with confidence and minimize disruption to your life or business.


Why Trust Clarkson and Clarkson INC. for Tax Services?

Choosing the right tax professional is a critical decision that impacts your financial well-being. Clarkson and Clarkson INC. offers distinct advantages that set us apart as Maine's trusted choice for tax preparation and planning:


  • Certified Local Expertise: Our team consists of highly qualified accountants with decades of combined experience specifically serving individuals and businesses throughout Maine. We possess an intimate understanding of both federal and state tax codes, coupled with unique insights into the local economic landscape.
  • Transparent, Flat-Fee Pricing: We believe in upfront honesty. Our tax services are offered with transparent, flat-fee pricing based on your needs and the complexity of your return. You'll know exactly what you'll pay, eliminating hourly surprises and allowing for clear financial planning.
  • Personalized Service & Direct Access: You're not just another file to us. You'll receive direct, responsive access to our senior accountants dedicated to understanding your unique situation and providing tailored advice. We pride ourselves on building lasting client relationships.
  • Year-Round Support & Proactive Planning: Our commitment extends beyond tax season. We are here for you throughout the year to answer questions, provide strategic tax planning advice, and help you make financially sound decisions that impact your future tax liabilities.
  • Audit-Ready Accuracy & Peace of Mind: Every tax return we prepare undergoes meticulous review and is crafted with the highest standards of accuracy and compliance. Our goal is to ensure your return is audit-ready, providing you with the ultimate peace of mind and confidence in your filings.
  • Comprehensive Financial Perspective: As a division of Clarkson Corporation, we offer the unique advantage of a holistic view of your financial health. We can integrate your tax planning with bookkeeping, payroll, and broader financial strategies for truly comprehensive support.

Who We Serve

Our tax preparation and planning services are meticulously tailored to meet the diverse financial situations and specific needs of a wide range of clients across Maine:


  • Individuals and Families: From single filers to large families, retirees, and those with complex investment portfolios or rental properties, we simplify personal income tax preparation, ensuring maximum deductions and compliance with all federal and state regulations.
  • Entrepreneurs, Freelancers, and Contractors: We understand the unique tax challenges faced by self-employed professionals, including estimated taxes, deductible business expenses, and navigating the complexities of Schedule C or pass-through entities. We help you optimize your tax situation.
  • Small Businesses and Startups: Whether you're a new venture or an established small business (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, S-Corp, C-Corp), we provide expert preparation for your business tax returns, ensuring compliance, minimizing liabilities, and advising on strategic tax planning for growth.
  • Nonprofits and Community Organizations: We offer specialized expertise in preparing tax returns for nonprofit organizations (e.g., Form 990 series), ensuring they maintain their tax-exempt status and comply with all specific IRS regulations relevant to their operations and funding.
  • High Net-Worth Individuals: For clients with substantial assets, complex investments, or diverse income streams, we provide sophisticated tax planning and preparation services designed to minimize liabilities and ensure efficient wealth management.
  • Real Estate Investors: We assist real estate investors with understanding depreciation, capital gains taxes, like-kind exchanges, and other specific tax considerations related to property acquisition, management, and sale.


No matter the complexity of your tax situation or the specific needs of your business, Clarkson and Clarkson INC. possesses the expertise and dedication to help you navigate the tax landscape confidently and efficiently.



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

going through a business tax return filing

  • Can Clarkson and Clarkson INC. help me if I haven't filed my tax returns in years?

    Yes, absolutely! We specialize in assisting clients who need to catch up on overdue tax returns and resolve past tax issues with the IRS or Maine Revenue Services. We can help you gather necessary documents, prepare accurate returns for previous years, and work with tax authorities on your behalf to address any penalties or outstanding balances, helping you get back on track.

  • Do you offer virtual tax preparation services, or do I need to visit your office in person?

    We offer comprehensive virtual tax preparation services to serve clients across all of Maine and beyond. While we welcome in-person meetings at our Brunswick office, you can securely upload your tax documents, communicate with our accountants, and sign forms electronically from the convenience of your home or office. This makes expert tax assistance easy and accessible, wherever you are.

  • How do you price your tax preparation services? Is it hourly or flat-fee?

    We believe in transparency and predictability. Our tax preparation services are offered on a flat-fee basis, determined by the complexity of your tax situation and the types of returns required (individual, business, number of schedules, etc.). We provide a clear quote upfront, so you know exactly what you'll pay, with no hourly surprises or hidden charges.

  • Can you help with proactive tax planning throughout the year, not just filing my annual return?

    Yes, absolutely! Our services extend far beyond just preparing your annual tax return. We provide year-round tax planning consultations and advice to help you strategically minimize future tax liabilities. This includes guidance on estimated tax payments, maximizing deductions and credits, optimizing business structures, and planning for significant financial events.

  • What kind of documents will I need to provide for my tax preparation?

    Generally, for individual returns, you'll need W-2s, 1099s (various types), statements for investments/retirement, mortgage interest statements, property tax bills, deductible expense receipts, and information on any life changes. For businesses, this includes profit & loss statements, balance sheets, payroll records, previous tax returns, and asset purchase/sale information. We provide a detailed checklist to make the process easy.

  • What happens if I get audited after you've prepared my tax return?

    If you receive an audit notice after we've prepared your tax return, you don't have to face it alone. As part of our service, we offer comprehensive audit support and representation. We will communicate with the tax authorities on your behalf, help organize necessary documentation, and work diligently to resolve the audit with the best possible outcome, minimizing your stress and disruption.

  • Do you specialize in tax preparation for specific industries or complex situations?

    Yes, our team has extensive experience with a wide range of industries, including retail, restaurants, professional services, construction, real estate, and more. We also specialize in complex tax situations, such as multi-state filings, foreign income, cryptocurrency transactions, and significant investment activities, ensuring tailored and expert guidance.