Crusty,
Instant yeast has a good shelf life, about 2 years if the package is unopened (and not refrigerated), and 6 months if tightly resealed and refrigerated after opening and, for added protection, stored in an airtight container. If frozen (also in an airtight container) the instant dry yeast will last almost indefinitely (although yeast producers usually recommend a much shorter time period—about a year). I keep mine in the freezer.
Peter