5 Day Notice Illinois

[James Syed]

Hi BP.

I have a tenant who has NOT paid rent for this month (August), rent is due 1st of every month according to lease agreement. I sent her a 5 day notice via certified mail with return receipt requested because she wouldn't answer the door or answer my phone. She's has an enormous dog (lab) at the house so I didn't attempt to go there to post the notice on her door as he had bit someone before.

My question is if she doesn't pay in 5 days, could I file a forcible entry detainer at the court ( We are in Macoupin County Illinois)? I have never done this before even though I am a licensed real estate managing broker however I don't feel confident enough.

I prefer to not hire an attorney unless I must because I am afraid it will cost a lot of money. I also heard horrible stories that if you don't file it right, it will take months to evict a tenant, etc.

Any suggestions?