Mario Payne

Mario Payne is a U.S. Army veteran, Certified Financial Planner, and the founder of TOAMS Financial, an independent advisory firm headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. With more than 15 years of experience, he has guided individuals, families, and business owners through wealth building, long-term planning, and financial decision-making. His work focuses on reducing financial stress while helping clients gain clarity, confidence, and control over their finances.

Academic Path and Professional Credentials

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Mario J. Payne developed an early interest in leadership and structure. After high school, he enrolled at Tennessee State University, where he earned a degree in Business Administration. His commitment to mastering his craft continued through the College for Financial Planning, where he completed formal education in financial planning. He later earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation along with the Accredited Asset Management Specialist credential, placing him among a small percentage of licensed African American advisors nationwide.

Service Through Military Leadership

While attending college, Mario joined the United States Army and served during Operation Enduring Freedom. He held the role of Financial Sergeant, managing finance and personnel under demanding conditions. During deployment, he helped fellow soldiers navigate pay and benefits and long-term planning while balancing the realities of active service. This experience shaped his disciplined approach to stewardship, accountability, and trust, values that later became central to his professional career.

Early Years in Financial Services

Mario began his civilian financial career at American Income Life Insurance Company. There, he learned the importance of clear communication and client education, particularly when working with working-class families. He later joined Edward Jones, where he expanded his expertise across investments, retirement strategies, and comprehensive planning. Working with retirees, entrepreneurs, and families from diverse backgrounds allowed him to refine a client-centered approach grounded in practical solutions and long-term value.

Building an Independent Advisory Firm

In 2013, Mario founded TOAMS Financial, an independent SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The name reflects the principle of stewardship, standing for Tithes, Offering, Alms, and Means Stewardship. Based in Jacksonville, Florida, the firm serves clients across the United States and internationally. TOAMS Financial was built on the belief that financial independence should be accessible, not exclusive. Under Mario’s leadership, the firm became one of the few African American-owned RIAs with SEC registration.

Expanding Financial Education Through Media

Mario Payne believes financial knowledge should be accessible to everyone. That belief led to the creation of Payneful Profits, a media platform and YouTube channel focused on breaking down market trends, economic cycles, and practical strategies. His clear and direct teaching style has helped thousands better understand investing and planning. His insights have also been featured in outlets such as Forbes and Cheddar News, where he has shared market analysis and long-term economic insights.

Innovation in Investment and Technology

Mario co-created LETB, recognized as the first Black-owned, AI-backed Exchange Traded Fund. LETB is paired with the Let Bob platform, a tool designed to help retail investors make informed, data-driven portfolio decisions. The platform emphasizes clarity and usability, allowing everyday investors to access strategy-driven insights without unnecessary complexity. This work reflects Mario’s broader commitment to merging technology with practical financial guidance.

Modernizing Estate Planning Access

To address estate-planning barriers, Mario created Relax Estate, an AI-powered digital platform that simplifies the creation of wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Designed for professionals and families, the platform removes the intimidation often associated with legal planning. By making estate tools more affordable and efficient, the Relax Estate helps families protect assets and plan for generational wealth with confidence.

Commitment to Community Leadership

Mario integrates service into every area of his life. He serves on the Board of Trustees for the Jacksonville Public Library, supporting literacy, technology access, and education initiatives. He is also a board member of the Tennessee State University Foundation, where he helps raise scholarship funds and support student success. Additional services include working with Knots 4 Kids and supporting the i Jacksonville initiative, which expands educational opportunities for students.

Real Estate and Neighborhood Revitalization

Beyond finance, Mario advises and participates in redevelopment projects through House Wars, an initiative focused on neighborhood revitalization. These projects transform neglected properties into stable housing while creating pathways to homeownership for lower-income families. By aligning investors, contractors, and community leaders, House Wars helps families build equity, security, and lasting legacies.

Recognition and Lasting Impact

Throughout his career, Mario Payne has received honors such as the 100K Day Award from Myron Golden and the 40 Acres Entrepreneur of the Year award. More importantly, his work continues to advance conversations around access, equity, and financial education, leaving a lasting impact on individuals, families, and communities.