Mario Payne

Mario Payne is a U.S. Army veteran, Certified Financial Planner, and the founder of TOAMS Financial, an independent advisory firm based in Jacksonville, Florida. With over 15 years of experience, he has dedicated his career to helping clients grow their wealth, plan for the future, and alleviate financial stress. Through initiatives like The Relax Estate and Payneful Profits, he focuses on providing practical solutions that promote long-term financial security for individuals and families.

Mario J. Payne was born in Cincinnati, Ohio. After graduating from high school, he attended Tennessee State University and earned a degree in Business Administration. Later, he pursued additional education and completed a degree in financial planning through the College for Financial Planning. His hard work and dedication led him to obtain the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification and the Accredited Asset Management Specialist designation. These accomplishments place him among fewer than two percent of licensed African American advisors with the CFP® credential.

While in college, Mario joined the United States Army and served as a Financial Sergeant during Operation Enduring Freedom. In that role, he supported soldiers by helping them manage their pay, make careful financial decisions, and plan for their futures under demanding conditions.

He began his financial services career at American Income Life Insurance Company, where he gained valuable experience explaining financial concepts to working families. He later worked at Edward Jones, where he helped retirees, business owners, and families build strategies to manage their finances and prepare for the future. These roles allowed him to refine his client-first approach to financial guidance.

In 2013, Payne founded TOAMS Financial, which stands for “Tithes Offering Alms Means Stewardship.” From its Jacksonville office, the firm serves clients nationwide and internationally. Under his leadership, TOAMS became one of the few African-American-owned investment advisory firms registered with the SEC.

Mario created Payneful Profits, a YouTube channel designed to clearly explain financial topics, including market trends, economic updates, and planning strategies. His insights have also been featured in prominent outlets, including Forbes and Cheddar News.

He co-founded LETB, the first Black-owned, AI-backed Exchange-Traded Fund, along with Let Bob, a tool designed to help retail investors make informed, data-driven choices. Payne also developed The Relax Estate, an AI-powered platform that simplifies the creation of wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.

He actively contributes to the community through board positions with the Jacksonville Public Library, the Tennessee State University Foundation, and Knots 4 Kids, supporting literacy, scholarships, and youth mentoring. His work through House Wars helps revitalize neighborhoods and provides families access to stable housing. Mario Payne has been recognized with honors such as the 100K Day Award and the 40 Acres Entrepreneur of the Year, reflecting his ongoing commitment to promoting financial education, equity, and opportunity.