Item 8.01 Other Events.

On September 17, 2008, Ameris Bancorp issued a press release announcing steps taken to strengthen its balance sheet and operating results. These steps include a reduction in the quarterly dividend from $0.14 per share to $0.05 per share, restructuring changes that resulted in an approximately 10% reduction in workforce, the establishment of new funding lines resulting in $270 million of additional borrowing capacity, and a reduction in investment portfolio risk, leading to significant appreciation in market value of the investment portfolio with no exposure to common or preferred stock of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

A copy of that press release is attached as Exhibit 99.1 to this Current Report.

Item 9.01. Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d) Exhibits.

99.1 Press release dated September 17, 2008.

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