Abstract: A hopper insert for refuse bags which internally supports the sidewalls of a refuse bag so that it is able to maintain an open shape, while also providing protection of the sidewall of the refuse bag from expansion damage due to efforts by a user to compress the refuse contained therein. The hopper insert is composed generally of a preferably rectilinearly shaped hopper having an open top, an open bottom, and is dimensioned for loosely being inserted inside a refuse bag. A funnel is provided at the top of the hopper which flairs outwardly and upwardly therefrom. When the hopper is inserted into a refuse bag, the funnel is located above the mouth of the refuse bag and provides a sturdy and conveniently larger opening for accepting refuse into the hopper, and thereby, into the refuse bag. Preferably, the corners of the hopper are gently rounded so as to protect the refuse bag from tearing.