You don't necessarily need your previous tax returns to report your lump-sum Social Security payments (SSA-1099), but having them can make the process easier if you plan to use the lump-sum election method to potential lose your taxes.
Key Points:
Current SSA-1099: Look at Box 5 for the total benefits received, including the lump-sum payment
Previous Year's Tax Returns: Helpful for finding your income and any taxable Social Security benefits reported in those years if you plan to use the