An improved process for the preparation of sulfamate derivatives such as topiramate is provided comprising (a) reacting an alcohol with sulfuryl chloride in the presence of an amine base and in a first halogenated hydrocarbon solvent selected from the group consisting of aliphatic halogenated hydrocarbon solvents having 1 to 12 carbon atoms and at least three halogen atoms, aliphatic halogenated hydrocarbon solvents having 2 to 12 carbon atoms and less than three halogen atoms, aromatic halogenated hydrocarbon solvents having 6 to 18 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof to produce a chlorosulfate intermediate and (b) reacting the chlorosulfate intermediate with an amine of the formula R.sup.1NH.sub.2, wherein R.sup.1 is hydrogen or an alkyl from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, in a second halogenated hydrocarbon solvent selected from the group consisting of aliphatic halogenated hydrocarbon solvents having 1 to 12 carbon atoms and at least three halogen atoms, aliphatic halogenated hydrocarbon solvents having 2 to 12 carbon atoms and less than three halogen atoms, aromatic halogenated hydrocarbon solvents having 6 to 18 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof.