I worked at several places during my OPT but only for a few months and did not keep the W-2 records and did not file my tax return as I was an international student and was about to leave the US.

Now I am in my home country and for a particular reason, need to show that I paid taxes during my OPT. I remember that my paychecks had tax deductions. So it means I paid taxes, right? Just didn't file with the IRS.

Now, how can I file my tax returns without the W-2s? The year I am talking about was 2004. Can someone please help me with this problem?
Thanks

The taxes withheld does not mean that you have paid exact taxes as per your tax return. The taxes with held may be more than your actual tax or may be less than your actual tax.

You must file your tax return. You will have to collect all your W2s from the employers. You can also contact IRS and ask for transcripts for 2004. You can order a transcript by calling 1-800-829-1040, or using Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return. There is no fee for a transcript.
Then you may have to contact Social Security Administration for copies of your W2. They will collect some fees from you.

One other item: If you file for 2004 and owe taxes, you must pay the overdue taxes, plus interest; they IRS MAY waive the penalties if you ask for a waiver.

However, if your return shows a refund to be due, you have FORFEITED the refund because you failed to file within three years of the initial filing date of 15 April 2005.