Refusing offers of help

If someone offers to do something for you, how can you refuse? Just saying "No" is likely to offend the person making the offer. Here are some ways to politely refuse an offer.

1. Thank the person

Thanks for asking but…
Thanks for the offer, but…
That's alright thanks, but…

2. Give a reason why you won't accept the offer

… I can do it by myself / on my own
… I don't need a hand
… it's not that difficult
… I don't need any help with that, thanks.

Examples

Can I help you with the project?
Thanks for asking, but I can do it by myself.

Shall I give you a hand moving the table?
That's alright thanks, but it's not heavy.

Do you need any help with the post?
No. it's OK. I don't need a hand, thanks.