Is there a way to get your 'history' or 'profile' form the IRS. By this I mean, can I find out what has been reported to them about me by third parties over the years in terms of W-4 forms, 1099 forms, etc.?
If I haven't kept good records, can they tell me anything about the returns I've filed over the years?
You can go to the IRS web site and request a transcript or a copy of a return which will give some information. If you forgot to include income reported on a W2 or 1099 form, you will likely have heard from the IRS already, but if the W2 or 1099 was issued by a small company or individual, it may be some time before the numbers get keyed in to the IRS computers. Large companies submit these forms electronically to the IRS (with paper copies to the payees) which makes it easier for the IRS to cross-check.
On the transcript request form (Form 4506-T), you can check a box to get 1099 and W-2 information.
You can request four years of information. To request more years, fill out another 4506-T form with those years and submit it separately. E.g., below is how to request the past four years:
