The present invention is directed to methods for preparing intermediates useful in the synthesis of paroxetine wherein the intermediates are substantially free of alkoxy impurities as well as to methods for preparing paroxetine and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof substantially free of alkoxy impurities. The alkoxy impurity is reacted with an ether cleaving agent to generate the corresponding phenol, which is separated, yielding the desired product substantially free of alkoxy impurities. Paroxetine intermediates such as PMA, paroxetine, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof substantially free of alkoxy impurities also form part of the present invention.