This disclosure relates to a process for preparing 5-aminobenzofuran derivatives of general formula (I): in which R1 and R2 are as defined in the description, by treating a 5-N-alkylamidobenzofuran derivative of general formula (II): in which R1, R2, and R3 are as defined in the description, with a strong acid, so as to form an acid addition salt of the compound of formula (I), which salt is itself treated, if necessary, with a basic agent so as to form this compound of formula (I) in free base form.